We Have Always Done It That Way

“Treat people the way you would want to be treated” is an adage that we hear a lot and on the surface it seems to make sense, but the problem is that it doesn’t often work when applied to staff or volunteer motivation/recognition. It assumes that all people want to be treated the same, and that just isn’t true. You might find a staff lunch a nice treat, but your staff might find a Starbucks gift certificate and keeping lunch to themselves a better treat. You might find being “employee of the month” a great reward, but your staff might find it embarrassing. You might find a Waterford crystal desk clock an extra-special gift; your past president might consider it next year’s number one re-gift.

You should treat people the way THEY want to be treated. The challenge is that this takes some effort. You need to get to know your staff and volunteers and discover what makes each of them tick. In the end, it will be well worth the time invested.

Tags: Staff Issues, We've Always Done It That Way // Add Comment »