I just finished The Carrot Principle, a fabulous book about recognition and acknowledgement in the work place. The entire time I was reading I kept thinking of client recognition as well as that of our team. One of the things Robb and I have talked about for years is the fact that as a client in a CF gym you are being praised on a regular basis. You are praised for good technique, a great performance on a WOD, besting your pullup record, or just working hard and pushing through. We feature client achievements on our blogs, we send handwritten notecards congratulating progress and effort, celebrate birthdays with a b-day WOD and just generally dish out the love.
From my experience most CF affiliate environments are full of positive recognition. There’s a lot of hard work and suffering and there’s an equal amount of support and acknowledgement. And the best part is that it comes from everyone! Clients acknowledging clients, trainers and coaches acknowledging clients, etc. Contrast this to the fact that most people in their day-to-day work life never hear the words “great job” or anything positive for that matter.
Let’s do a little brainstorming! What are some innovative ways you all have of recognizing client success?
First, check out the Carrot Keynote, a high energy, entertaining video (you’ll need to scroll down the page a bit) of the author of the Carrot Principle! Oh and go out and pick up a copy of the book…it’s an easy read and highly motivating!
A swift pat on the butt always worked for me… At least till I got a girlfriend now I can only pat her butt.
Good post Nicki.
We started posting a “Firebreather of the Month” on our blog. It serves to acknowledge someone who has worked hard that month and met the goals they have set for themselves (and these goals are written on a whiteboard so everyone can see!).
i was sure this was going to be about Melissa Byers and diet!
But this is better.
We have only been open for about 8 months and are trying to decide how to ‘feature’ members.
Some of our clients achieve “Demo Girl” Status. It may be just one movement but when they are asked to demonstrate for others they are quite flattered. I swear their form improves while they are demonstrating.
Thanks for the post. Now I think I find more formal ways of acknowledgement.
Nicki, I agree with encouraging clients; it helps definitely! I try harder s well. And how about a little love for our great group of instructors! I think at Norcal we are really fortunate to have such dedicated and informed coaches. Thank you all for your efforts!
Hey Mike!
Great to see you posting here! Thanks for the props…clients like you are what make our community great! Looking forward to the tomatoes