Becoming a Great Place

A Roadmap to Employer of Choice Status

– TRUST is key:• Trust is the capital that sustains an

organization in challenging times.• Listening builds understanding and

understanding builds trust.

– Respond to the uniqueness of the workforce:• The blend of job categories, gender and age

must be considered. – For example: Younger generations are less

willing to put family and self in second place.

Great Attributes

– Model, don’t match:• Gather ideas from the best, but avoid the

temptation to copycat.• Test ideas and concepts with key groups of

employees – this also helps to build trust.

– Maslow’s Hierarchy does matter:• Before any unique and creative programs are

implemented, ensure that base pay and basic benefits are competitive.

Great Attributes

The Great Strategy

– Assess your present status:• Employee focus groups are a valuable way to

take the pulse of your workforce.

• Review exit interview data.

• Review customer feedback.

– Seek trends, not names:• Assess information from various data sources;

identify trends and common themes.

The Leap to Great

– Avoid the temptation to fix too much at once:• Pick one or two initiatives, focus on success.

• Explain why other ideas are not being pursued – or are a lower priority.

– Communicate, Communicate:• Outline your strategy and reasons for it.

• Provide frequent, high-level feedback to employees.

Great Sustainability– Involve employees:

• Use task forces and teams to assist with implementation.

• Glitches are inevitable – seek feedback and quickly address concerns.

– It’s a Journey, not a trip:• The commitment is long term.

• Listening, responding and communicating must become a part of the fabric of the organization.

PROS • Instant gratification

• Useful for all• Conveys appreciation• Can reward longevity and performance• Easy concept to understand• Critical need in this economic climate

…And so the debate continues….

CONS • Keep up with the Jones’

• Fuels internal struggles (unless exactly equal)• Spent and forgotten• Taxes• Never enough

A Word About Cash as a Motivator

Summary

• Every organization has the chance to be Great.

• Understanding your workforce, listening and building trust are key.

• Adapt, don’t copy.

• It’s a Journey, not a trip. Becoming great takes time and a long-term focus.