HOW’S YOUR F.R.A.P ACTIVITY?

We cannot change the fact that there are difficult jobs that need to be done for our amazing societies to function.?

What we can do - however, is instill a greater sense of engagement and pride in those who are willing to do those difficult jobs.?

We can help install greater pride in the work and the mission through recognition and appreciation for the work being done. We can remind people that what they do - truly matters - and help them see how their work and role connects to the bigger picture of mission and purpose.?

The Challenge: Overlooked and Unappreciated Jobs

Every organization has roles that are crucial to its functioning but often go unnoticed. Keeping the facilities clean, monitoring data logs, transporting materials, entering data… they are all necessary functions that keep our complex society running smoothly. They are vital functions. During the pandemic we called them “essential workers”... and essential they were.?

No the pandemic is well behind us - do we think they continue to receive the recognition they deserve.

I often explain, "Some jobs will never be loved or easy, and no expensive career development course or investment will change that. But that doesn’t negate that the job needs to get done -and it’s important. So give extra praise to the people who do them."

The Power of Purpose: A Lesson from the Mayo Clinic

In a recent discussion with Stephen Chipman, Former CEO at Grant Thornton LLP, I shared a powerful story about purpose and recognition. Stephen recounted, "There was a work study being done at the Mayo Clinic, and one of the questions was to describe your job. A janitor was asked to describe her job, and she said, 'I don't see my job as cleaning rooms; I see my job as saving lives.”

This simple yet profound statement shifted perspectives. The janitor understood the direct impact of her work on the broader goal of saving lives, which transformed her view of her role from mundane to vital.

This story emphasizes the importance of connecting employees' daily tasks to the larger mission of the organization. It's about seeing the value in every role and recognizing how each contribution supports the overall success.

The Power of FRAP (Impact of Feedback, Recognition, Appreciation, & Pride)

The impact of a simple act of recognition is profound.?

Try it. See it for yourself.?

Appreciation isn’t just a feel-good gesture; it's a fundamental aspect of building a cohesive, motivated workforce.

Let's consider the substantial workforce dedicated to caring for our aging population. Their compassion and dedication are often overlooked, yet they play a vital role in ensuring the well-being and comfort of our elders. From providing medical assistance to offering emotional support, these unsung heroes deserve our utmost respect and gratitude.

Whenever we stay at a hotel, we marvel at the spotless rooms and impeccable service. Behind the scenes, an army of housekeepers meticulously cleans and sanitizes each space, ensuring a comfortable and hygienic environment for guests. Their attention to detail and tireless efforts often go unnoticed, but they are the backbone of the hospitality industry.

When we travel, our belongings are entrusted to a complex network of transportation professionals.?

When we shop, truck drivers navigate winding roads, cargo ships traverse vast oceans, and train engineers maneuver heavy locomotives across vast landscapes. These individuals work tirelessly to ensure our goods arrive at their destinations safely and on time. Their dedication keeps our wonderfully amazing lives and economies running smoothly and connects people across the globe.

In the realm of education, we find a troubling disparity. While educators play a fundamental role in shaping young minds and fostering intellectual growth, they are often underrepresented and underpaid. Teachers, professors, and support staff deserve better compensation and recognition for their invaluable contributions to society. Their passion and commitment inspire future generations and lay the foundation for a knowledgeable and enlightened populace.

Healthcare, hospitality, and transportation are just a few of the industries that rely on the hard work and dedication of often-overlooked individuals. These unsung heroes keep our society running smoothly and make our lives more convenient and comfortable.?

It's imperative that we acknowledge and appreciate their contributions, ensuring that they receive fair treatment and compensation. By valuing and supporting these essential workers, we create a more just and equitable world for all.

When people feel appreciated for the work they do, no matter how mundane or challenging, it fosters a culture of pride and mutual respect.?

Building a Culture of Appreciation

Creating a culture of appreciation involves recognizing and valuing every employee's contribution, regardless of their role. It's about understanding that while some jobs may be inherently challenging and unglamorous, the people doing them deserve respect and acknowledgment.

It's easy to celebrate big wins and high-profile successes, but true leadership involves recognizing the everyday efforts that keep the wheels turning.?

When we appreciate these efforts, we build a stronger, more resilient organization.

The Takeaway

The early challenges we faced in building WorkProud taught us the importance of resilience, innovation, and staying true to our core values. By navigating these obstacles, we developed a deep understanding of the needs and motivations of employees, which has been central to our mission of fostering workplace pride and recognition.

Stay open to the unexpected, and don't be afraid to chase those sparks of inspiration. Each challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow, paving the way for future success.

In summation, although we cannot alter the inherent nature of every job, we have the ability to shape individuals' perceptions of their work and instill a sense of pride in their endeavors. By cultivating a culture that values recognition, we can ensure that each employee feels appreciated and takes pride in their contributions, fostering a positive and productive work environment for everyone involved.

Ready to power up your F.A.R.P levels….?

https://workproud.com/