Inspiring Workplaces: Why Everyone Needs a Voice at Work

Published: Wed, 07/10/19

Humor at Work

ISSUE 780 - July 10, 2019


			Why Everyone Needs a Voice at Work

	A recent survey found that while 90% of managers felt their employees were empowered to share ideas with them, 45% of their employees felt they couldn't, in fact, share their ideas and 53% of employees felt they were voiceless at work. The topic of employees having a voice at work resonates with many people - whenever I write about this topic or delve into in workshops, it always generates a tremendous amount of conversation. Why? Because surveys such as the one cited above suggest most organizations aren't doing a great job when it comes to employees being granted any meaningful input. So, here's a reminder of the top-10 benefits of giving employees a louder voice at work: 1. You unearth ideas that you might otherwise miss out on - those 1% improvement ideas and the transformative ideas that really shake things up. 2. You nip problems in the bud before they have a chance to bloom into something really thorny. 3. You discover hidden talent that might have otherwise gone unrecognized. 4. Employees feel a greater sense of belonging and camaraderie. 5. Employees develop a greater sense of curiosity about your business - leading to richer conversations, greater engagement, and better ideas. 6. Employees gain a sense of co-ownership in your organization. 7. Employees get a chance to find their authentic voice and develop their communication skills. 8. It helps employees develop their leadership skills. 9. Front line employees are able to play a vital role as advocates for your customers, passing along their concerns and ideas. 10. Asking the simple question, "What do you think?" is an invaluable form of workplace recognition. It is the simplest way to let your employees (or your teammates) know you value them and respect their experience, judgement, and expertise.

		Mike's Fun at Work Tip

Friday, July 12 is official Bald is In Day, which reminds me of the wacky promotion offered by Gary's Uptown Restaurant in California, where a "Bald Guy's" menu is offered each Wednesday. Yup, every Wednesday customers pay based on how much hair they have - totally bald and your meal is free, 50% bald and you get half off, while men with toupees or comb-overs have to reveal their bald spot to get a discount. The crazy promo garners them free publicity and attracts customers from hours away, so why not try something similar in your business: a "bald is beautiful" discount day; left-handers day; howl at the moon day; hottest day of the year special; return of the wombats deal...you get the gist (full disclosure: I'm not sure "return of the wombats" is an actual thing). And yes, you can also get creative and tie this into fun prizes/recognition opportunities for your internal team members as well.
		Quote of the Week

“I figured out the best way to be happy is by helping other people.” Dick Gregory
		It's a Wacky World

A survey on Human Resources Online featured some of the worst excuses British workers have given for not showing up at work. The "winners" (I'm using the term rather loosely here) included: I thought it was Saturday! I dreamt I was already at work so I thought I should just stay asleep. I had a bad dream and needed the day to recover. I got lucky last night and didn't know where I was in the morning. I accidentally ate cat food and felt really sick.

Cost-Savings to Bring Mike in to Energize Your Workplace!
Calgary: Savings on dates in July and August
Montreal: August 17, 21
Toronto: Sept. 10, 11, 20
Ottawa: Sept. 10, 12
Toronto: Sept. 20
Halifax: September 30
Vancouver: Nov. 4-6
Toronto: Dec.12-14

Summer Fun at Work
Because for you Northern hemisphere folks, it's SUMMER! 10 Ways to Add More Fun To Your Workplace This Summer!

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