Pocket Praise Program Boosts Team Morale

"This year I had quite a few changes in staff and morale was quite low. So in August I purchased the Recognition System from Baudville for my group (six of us) with the hopes that I could at least affect my group within the company.

"When I introduced the program I built up a lot of suspense and wouldn't disclose to my team what I was up to. I had each of them pick out a fun secondary title for themselves, which I then used to order the Desktop Nameplates. I ordered some other fun trinket items and made a big ordeal being secretive, letting the suspense build.

"The day I unveiled the program I gave them each their goody bag and explained how the Recognition System would work. I encouraged people to recognize the nice things that others do for them and then to write out a Pocket Praise(R) card. We put a receipt into a container and then at the end of every month we hold a raffle drawing and anyone who has gotten a Pocket Praise is eligible to win. The winner then is allowed to choose a prize from my Treasure Chest - which has all kinds of cool, fun, low-priced items in it.

"The Pocket Praise cards were quickly renamed Warm Fuzzies since the kind words written give you a warm and fuzzy feeling. Within three months several other departments within the organization have also joined board with the Warm Fuzzies. It touches me to see so many people affected by the kind words that others write them. Many times it has nearly brought a tear to someone's eyes. Each one of my team proudly displays each Pocket Praise they get in their work area. One person can really make a difference - the power of ONE!"

Michelle Mangen, Executive Administrator
New Land Enterprises, LLP
Milwaukee, WI