I was working with group of government employees for the State of Colorado when they told me about “THE ROCK.” (To be honest, I cannot remember which client it was… I think it was the Colorado Housing Authority.)
Here’s the idea:
When somebody in the office does something well, or especially helpful, or especially noteworthy, they are awarded, “The Rock.” It’s just a painted rock on a plate.
They keep it on their desk, giving them bragging rights until the next employee, sometime down the road, earns the rock.
The result? Improved morale, laughter and fun, humor in the workplace, and employee retention. And all that with a budget of, get this, $0! Zip. Nada. Gratis.
Humor in the workplace for free? You betcha. What a killer idea. Effective and cheap.
It kills me when I work with administrators and managers who are willing to improve morale and WANT to improve morale, but have no idea how to do it. Yet this great Colorado group came up with an awesome idea that has lasted for years ‘d1 and is still going strong ‘d1 for free.
Need some humor in YOUR workplace (and don’t like painting?) Learn more about my keynote speeches and motivational programs here.
Cheers.
Brad Montgomery
Colorado Motivational Speaker, Humor in the Workplace Expert, Fan of Rocks
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Thanks Brad.
An interesting and creative approach to recognize the efforts of particularly hard-working staff. It’s fun, simple and cost effective. It beats expensive bonus payments. (although the renumenration structure should also be used to motivate staff)
They are certainly thinking out of the square.
However, it is imperative that the Human Relations department specifies that the rock is not to be used either in the event of a bad day or in resolving disputes with colleagues.
Cheers
Andrew