For SBT
Recently a business leader confided that he “just wants to see this year end”. Many leaders have echoed that same message. Multiple challenges with the economy, the terrible tragedy of Sept. 11, layoffs, downsizing, rightsizing, and re-structuring have left many leaders discouraged and disheartened. They believe that if they can just put all of “this” behind them, the new year will be much more promising.
Some have considered burning the 2001 calendar as a way to symbolically “erase” the pain of this past year. Others have recommended eliminating holiday parties and end-of-the-year celebrations, as much out of a sense of “what’s there to celebrate?” as it is a concern for the financial cost to the business.
I have suggested that one of the rituals that the end of the year invites for leaders, is reflection on all that has worked well, even as we acknowledge the tremendous difficulties of the last number of months. What we have learned in the midst of unimaginable tragedy is the triumph of the human spirit. We have witnessed an outpouring of support and compassion for victims and their families. While we have been confronted with the face of death, we have also seen the face of life — radiant, open, filled with wonder and awe.
Likewise, heroes have emerged in organizations in surprising places. When given the option, some employees have elected early retirement to avoid the necessity of layoffs for their colleagues. Employees have taken voluntary pay cuts, beginning with the CEO. Leaders have been more appreciative, more responsive, more connected to the heart and soul of the organization even when they have needed to make difficult decisions that affect employee’s lives. In multiple ways, we have seen managers and employees in our organizations take on challenges and respond creatively and courageously to a new invitation of engagement.
As this year ends, leaders have an opportunity to honor and recognize the individual and collective successes of their employees. They have an opportunity to bring into the light all that went well during a very difficult year and to name the “heroes” who supported the mission and vision of their companies.
Suggestions for celebrations and recognition:
– provided extraordinary customer service;
– responded with courage and hope when fear and disappointment were tangible;
– initiated voluntary activities in response to Sept. 11;
– maintained a consistent positive attitude;
– stepped in to assist with activities that were not a part of their job descriptions;
– demonstrated a collaborative spirit.
– Messages of appreciation from clients about individual service which were read at the celebration;
– Watches – for the time that each employee has invested in company success;
– Gift certificates (spa, getaways, etc.) “self-care” for the care employees offered to one another and to clients;
– Books – selected for the individual talent that an employee brings to work (humor, creativity, tenacity);
– Candles representing the bright light that employees have offered during the darkest of days.
As leaders, your voice of gratitude inspires and ignites the spirits of your employees. Your personal “thank you” is a gift that all employees long for and welcome. During this holiday season, give voice to your gratitude. Offer your gift honestly and generously. Know that you have a profound ability to bless this “year of years” and to invite full possibilities into 2002. May you enjoy the unexpected gifts that you will receive by offering your gift of gratitude!
Good holidays and many blessings for you in the New Year!
Karen Vernal is president of Vernal Management Consultants in Milwaukee. She can be reached at 414-271-5148 of via e-mail at vernal@execpc.com; www.vernalmgmt.com
Dec. 7, 2001 Small Business Times, Milwaukee
