Masonry Magazine January 2009 Page. 41
People want to do more
Just as our sophomore coach improved every player, you can change the people in your company. Their output is the result of your input. All it takes is a regular slap on the back. Ninety-two percent of people who leave companies say they never received any praise or compliments from their bosses. Ninety-seven percent say they would do more if they were recognized and appreciated regularly.
Think about your project or company. You can't do it alone. You need staff, suppliers, subcontractors, managers, foremen and workers to get the job done. Most everyone wants to do a good job. And, the simplest way to get what you want is to give them the recognition they deserve.
A system that works
My recognition system is simple: I try to recognize everyone who works for me at least once a week. I use a checklist to assure I don't forget anyone. One-on-one, face-to-face appreciative comments work best, such as, "Thank you for ..." or "I appreciate your doing..."
When I'm out of town, or when it's impossible to see everyone, I make time to write short appreciative notes. I often see these notes proudly posted on their bulletin boards for weeks. It is amazing how a kind word goes such a long way. I also leave short voice mail messages telling them how much I appreciate their work. Any praise or recognition given now is better than waiting for the "perfect" time to do it.
With our customers, architects, suppliers and subcontractors, I try to send handwritten thank you notes regularly. This keeps them excited about being on our team. This also motivates them to go the extra mile when we really need them.
A winning coach
Who is on your praise and recognition list? Who should you thank today? How often do you give praises and words of appreciation? Remember my coach who took a bunch of regular guys and turned them into winners? He didn't know how to do the work or play the game. But, he did know how to turn people into winners. Go slap someone on the back, today, IMAS
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Best-selling author and professional speaker George Hedley is the author of the "The Business Success Blueprint Series," available in eight workbook and audio CD sets. Contact him to present to your organization on his proven system to build profits, people, customers and wealth. Construction company owners are invited to attend his two-day Profit-Builder Circle boot camps. Email gh@hardhatpresentations.com to receive a free copy of his book, "Everything Contractors Know About Making A Profit," or signup for his free monthly e-newsletter.
George Hedley, HARDHAT Presentations, 3189-8 Airway Ave, Costa Mesa, CA 92626. 800-851-8553;
www.hardhatpresentations.com
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January 2009
Masonry
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