The month of April is a
time to celebrate Secretaries Week and to recognize support
staff for their accomplishments and contributions to
corporate success. Research from Texas A&M University
reveals one gift of appreciation in particular that will
naturally lift an employee's mood, create a lasting memory
and boost productivity. The research demonstrates that
flowers and plants enhance people’s ability to generate
ideas and solve problems.
“Our study shows that
adding flowers and plants to a work environment can be very
meaningful to businesses in the modern economy,” said Roger
Ulrich, Ph.D., lead Texas A&M researcher. “People's
productivity, innovation and creative problem solving,
improved – which in certain circumstances could mean the
difference between mild and great business success.”
Rebecca Cole, author of
Flower Power and host of Discovery Channel's
Surprise by Design offers an additional perspective. “Giving
flowers is a loud, proud, sophisticated way of saying ‘I
appreciate all you do.' They're a great way to build a
strong, lasting professional relationship,” said Cole.
Tips
for Bosses
A simple "Thank You" can go a long way to motivate your
secretary and build loyalty. Secretaries Week offers an
ideal opportunity to show appreciation - and formally
reinforce the value of an employee's contributions. Here’s a
simple guide to help smart managers put the benefits of
proper office etiquette to work during Secretaries Week and
year-round:-
Use Secretaries Week to
find out what motivates your secretary. Conduct a formal
or informal survey asking your secretary what kind of
incentives he/she value most. This will show your commitment
and give you hints on what forms of appreciation they would
enjoy during Secretaries Week.
Be open and direct.
If you're not sure whether he/she wants to be recognized
during Secretaries Week, just ask.
Make "thank yous"
personal. Whether you're buying a gift or making lunch
reservations, think about the individual. For example, if
you're ordering flowers, ask your florist to create an
arrangement that fits the recipient's personality. Is that
person traditional? Outdoorsy? Dramatic?
Be specific. Tell
your secretary exactly what he/she did that you appreciate.
Treat Secretaries Week
like a New Year's resolution. Resolve to practice better
office etiquette year-round to build your team's confidence
and cohesion. Whether it's celebrated with a gift, flowers,
or a group luncheon, Secretaries Week is an opportunity to
formally acknowledge not only your secretary but members of
your support staff for their contributions throughout the
year and wipe the slate clean of any forgotten thank yous.
Story Extracted from
International Association of Administrative Professionals
©2005
SAF All Rights Reserved.
