Field Notes

Fieldamental #26: Celebrate Success

Written by Field Fastener | June 30, 2016

CELEBRATE SUCCESS. Recognizing people doing things right is more effective than pointing out when they do things wrong.  Regularly extend meaningful acknowledgement and appreciation – in all directions throughout our company.

Like so many of the Fieldamentals, this is about perspective as much as anything.  It’s about starting from the standpoint that “I’m for your success,” rather than starting from “I’m waiting for you to fail.”  When we are truly committed to helping each other succeed we optimize the capability of the entire team.  It is impossible for a team to be highly functioning without teammates who are supportive of each other. . . and it’s impossible for an organization to succeed without extraordinary teamwork.

It feels really good to receive heartfelt thanks for some activity that went well!  Overall we do a good job with this Fieldamental, it was one of our highest rated during the initial survey.  I would like to focus on what goes into making a sincere “thank you” for a job well done; they need to be honest, specific, and include the impact of the action taken.

To express heartfelt appreciation, you must be honest.  We have talked a lot about Fieldamental #10 Speak Candidly, be candid in your appreciation to other team members when you express your appreciation for a job well done.  The next step is to be as specific as possible about what the other person(s) did that you appreciate.  To make the appreciation very effective, include a comment on what impact their efforts had on your or others on the Field team.

Express your appreciation face to face if possible; it will have the biggest impact.  The “We Rock” system is another great way to celebrate success with other Field team members.  It is as simple as clicking on the icon on your PC desktop and completing the form.

Tell someone that you appreciate what they do and take a few minutes to express your appreciation using the “We Rock” system, it will make them feel good and is good for the overall health of the team.