We’re investing the month of December in focusing on the team and how we can make our team work better, more efficiently and with the team at the heart of what we do…daily.

If you have ever watched a flock of geese flying overhead, you can always hear them honking. The joke was always that they were honking for the right of way. Scientists have learned that it is the geese in the “V” that are honking and only the lead goose does not honk. You read right…the lead goose in the “V” does not honk and all of the others do.

Scientist theorize that the geese in the “V” are honking encouragement. Can you imagine what that would be like? “You are doing a great job leading us! We appreciate the flight line we are on! Way to go…great job!”

Here is your swift kick in the butt challenge: If you’re a manager or supervisor, what would it feel like if your employees took a moment to tell you that you are a great boss, you’re doing a great job and that they appreciate the job you are doing? It would be an incredible feeling. As we’ve discussed before, it is important to claim that culture in your company. What are you waiting for? Regardless of your level in the company, tell your boss or supervisor that you appreciate what they do and that they are doing a great job. Watch the expression on their face.

In your Running Shoe Monday Meeting, let’s examine the company culture. Do we promote the idea of cheering others on to bigger and better things? Do supervisors acknowledge the great efforts of others? Are others encouraged to acknowledge the efforts of their supervisors? What would it look like if appreciation and gratitude was commonplace? Encourage others to regularly tell supervisors and coworkers that they are doing a great job and that you appreciate what they do.

Sit back for a moment, close your eyes and imagine what that would be like and what that would do for the attitude of all employees.

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