Inspiring Workplaces: Earth Matters

Published: Wed, 04/22/15

Humor at Work

ISSUE 579 - Apr. 22, 2015


			Earth Matters

	Today, April 22, is Earth Day. Having just returned from one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet - namely Ecuador, where I spent time in the Amazon jungle, the spectacular Galapagos Islands, and a cloud forest reserve that holds the record for the most number of birds counted on the annual Audubon bird count day, I'm feeling particularly, well, earthy, I suppose (I blame it on the blue-footed boobies). So a few thoughts to ponder... - What is your workplace doing to minimize your impact on the environment and/or contribute to a healthier planet? Not only is it the right thing to do, we also know from numerous studies that employees want to feel connected to a greater sense of purpose in their work and to work for organizations that place a premium on values such as environmental stewardship. - Getting involved in charity events is a fantastic way to boost morale and build team camaraderie. Why not look for more opportunities to contribute to organizations that support environmental causes? - A growing number of Iphone apps and online resources are making it easier than ever for customers to assess the environmental practices of companies and the environmental impact of various products, allowing them to vote with their dollars like never before. How will this impact your company as this trend grows? - Conversely, some companies reward customers for their eco-friendly practices. For example, the fabulous Opus Hotel in Vancouver, B.C., offers free parking for guests who drive electric cars. - If you are trying to raise environmental awareness or change behaviors in your workplace, then remember that a little humor can go a long way. As Arlo Guthrie once said, "Just because you're trying to save the planet it doesn't mean you can't have any fun!" (For inspiration, check out these videos that deliver environmental messages in a hilariously funny manner: Top Ten Funny Environmental Videos.) We've got one amazing planet, and ONLY one, that we're borrowing for a short time. Everything and everyone is interconnected like never before. And since the economy is a subset of the environment (and not the other way around...as some believe) we need to celebrate, appreciate and respect the earth like never before. Happy Earth Day.

		Mike's Fun at Work Tip

Today, April 22, is also Administrative Professionals' Day and the middle of Administrative Professionals' Week. Admin professionals are often the unsung heroes in many workplaces. Without them I'm convinced many a workplace would fall into total chaos, if for no other reason that they know where everything is located...including where the bodies are buried. They are often the "Directors of First Impressions" and the glue in organizations that bond people together. They are the people that often have to put up with high maintenance bosses AND demanding clients. So take some time, if not today, then before the week is out, to truly thank them. Take them to lunch, create a humor survival first aid kit for them, serenade them with a corny thank-you song, publicly acknowledge them on your website and newsletters...and use this week as a reminder to keep appreciating them for the rest of the year!
		Quote of the Week

"I think you need two things to get by in this world: a sense of humor and the ability to laugh when your ego is destroyed." Arlo Guthrie
		It's a Wacky World

Some funny tourist questions featured in my bestselling book, "What's So Funny About Alberta?": - Is Edmonton open during the winter? - How do I get to Dead Deer? - Do you have milk in Alberta? How about gas stations? - How do I get to Medical Hat? - How do I get to Smashed in the Head Buffalo Dump? - Where does Alberta end and Canada begin?

Building a Culture of Trust Webinar:

Mike leads an idea-packed webinar, Tuesday, April 28 at 12:00 p.m. MST on building a high trust culture. To register go to: Building a Culture of Trust

More Reading

Mike is quoted in the article Injecting Humor Into Safety Messages Increases Effectiveness

Mike's latest book, The Humor Advantage is Getting Rave Reviews!

"A must-read for any organization that wants to attract and keep top talent, engage employees, boost sales, and turn customers into passionate, lifelong fans!" Colleen Francis, Author of Nonstop Sales Boom

Phenomenal pricing on bulk orders! The Humor Advantage -Why Some Businesses Are Laughing All the Way to the Bank!

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