Burn the Free Fuel

Strategy #7: Burn the Free Fuel

Appreciating and Recognizing Employees: Lee Cockerell stresses the importance of consistent appreciation, recognition, and encouragement (ARE) as crucial tools in leadership. These acts are described as cost-free means to boost team morale and performance. A personal anecdote from Cockerell at the Marriott showcases the profound impact a simple letter of appreciation had on his banquet manager, Eddie, highlighting how valued recognition made him feel greatly appreciated and motivated.

Power of ARE: ARE is likened to an inexhaustible and sustainable fuel for motivating and engaging employees. It has a cyclic effect—once people receive appreciation, they often feel compelled to express similar sentiments to others, enhancing the overall work environment.

Implementing ARE: 1. Spend Meaningful Time with Employees: - Engage with employees by working alongside them, getting to know them, and showing interest in their opinions and well-being. Simply being present at work and social events can significantly convey appreciation.

  1. Recognize Employees by Name:

    • Personal interactions, such as recognizing employees by name, can make a substantial impact on their morale.

  2. Catch Employees Doing Something Right:

    • Focus on positive behaviors and reinforce them quickly and specifically, which boosts confidence and motivates repeated behaviors.

  3. Make Recognition Public and Frequent:

    • Public acknowledgment of employees’ contributions can motivate others and should happen more than just at annual gatherings. This might include newsletters or awards that highlight individual accomplishments.

  4. Recognize and Encourage Good Ideas:

    • Show appreciation for employees' suggestions and follow through on implementing them, which can foster a culture of innovation and participation.

  5. Include Their Families:

    • Recognize and involve employee's families in celebrations and acknowledgments to further enhance motivation and show broader appreciation for the support families provide.

  6. Integrate ARE into Routine:

    • Make appreciation and recognition a regular part of leadership practice rather than an occasional gesture.

  7. Watch Your Language:

    • Use respectful and inclusive language which underscores the value of every team member.

Cultivating a Culture of ARE: Leaders are encouraged to routinely integrate ARE into their daily management practices to foster a supportive and productive work environment. This includes using day planners to remind oneself to dispense recognition frequently, ensuring that feedback—whether it entails recognition or constructive criticism—is given timely and tactfully, and including reminders for leaders to be aware of their significant impact through routine interactions.

Action Steps: Several actionable steps are outlined for leaders to ensure continuous application of ARE, such as being present at employee events, remembering names, recognizing good work publicly and privately, involving families in celebrations, and changing organizational vocabulary to enhance respect and inclusion.