Posted by: Heather Rodriguez, Director of Quality
While perusing the TBD newsletter archives, I came across this encouraging article that I found very relevant for today's business economy. I think we could all use a little more fun in our workplace.
With the US in recession and companies downsizing or closing all together, it's little wonder that many people walk around with a sense of impending doom! The overall impact on the workplace can be manifested as apathy, compliance, greater fear to take risks, less energy toward the job or a greater sense of being security minded.
Now that I’ve totally bummed you out, let’s see what we can do to help bring some energy back into your workplace.
Remember those zany folks from Seattle's Pike Place Fish Market? Obviously, your place of business probably doesn't involve slinging hundreds of pound of fish everyday, but I think there are some very valuable ideas to extract from these philosophies -- especially in these times. I’m going to borrow from the four principles of the Fish! Philosophy.
Philosophy One: Play. No, you don’t have to rollerblade through your center or throw stuff, but what you can do is: Don’t take yourself so seriously! As the manager, you can initiate safe and relaxing play opportunities for your employees. Identify ways to bring a smile to each ermployee’s face. Some simple suggestions you can do today: give your employees tactile toys to play with or host a picnic lunch with blankets, paper plates and simulated ants. But you say, “Some people just don’t like to play!” Wrong! Some people just play differently than others. Acknowledge their preferences to not play physically and integrate some intellectual play like crossword puzzles, jigsaw puzzles, anagrams, etc.
Philosophy Two: Make Their Day. As the manager, you can make a big impact by helping your employees through this fearsome time. Little things still count…and in today’s world, it may be more meaningful than ever before. Find an appropriate way to acknowledge your employees when they are fully engaged in serving their customer. Do it daily. A pat on the back, small note, an email acknowledging their smile, a single, fresh-cut flower…the small things are important in an overwhelming world.
Philosophy Three: Be There. People need reassurance that those closest to them are actually there for them. Pull up a chair and sit facing the employee. Ask how they are doing. Inquire about their family, especially if someone has a deployed military member. And most important of all, listen. Jot down a few notes, if needed, to remind yourself to check back in a few days to follow up on the family member.
Philosophy Four: Choose Your Attitude. Yes, it’s all about you! The attitude you choose will have a big impact on your work environment and the overall business. Choose an attitude of optimism. The more in tune you are with your employees, the greater impact you’ll have upon their attitudes and performance…so it’s up to you to bring some life and energy back into your workplace!
