IN THIS ISSUE
	Kathy O'Brien from CBS' Survivor Tasks vs. Role: Bringing Home The Bacon ....by Scott Delman The POWER Of Determination Manager's Corner Reward Your Staff

Tasks vs. Role: Bringing Home The Bacon ....by Scott Delman

The understanding of task vs. role yields dividends toward making organizations more successful and profitable. Why? And what is the important distinction? What difference could it make to the employee, employer, or the customer? The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition defines task as: A piece of work assigned or done as part of one's duties. And role as: The actions and activities assigned to or required or expected of a person or group. Summarized, a task is a piece of work - one's duties; a role is one's actions. Take an objective look at your job descriptions and hiring practices. Ask yourself if they are in line with obtaining workers who will bring you to that illusive "level of performance" you have often wished for at management meetings. Most often, I find they are not. Read on. Read on for examples... »

The POWER Of Determination

In this interview, Rayne Herzog reveals powerful strategies that have made him a successful businessman and unstoppable entrepreneur. Rayne is founder, partner, and general manager of the Shelburne Athletic Club - a thriving, profitable health club in Vermont's most competitive city. Opened in 1998, the success of his health club is no mystery. Rayne is an innovative, disciplined businessman with top leadership skills, a finely tuned staff, and an acute knowledge of what his clientele want - and will buy. Using his inventive mind and endless energy, Rayne has developed local and national strategic alliances with the likes of Vermont Teddy Bear, Kathy O'Brien (Survivor, Marquesas), and Karhu USA an American distributor of winter gear, just to name a few. Read the interview... »

Manager's Corner

Successful "hands-on" managers have a secret. They understand motivation. They know the value of rolling up their sleeves, going down to the work area, and spending the day working along side their staff - doing the same work that they do. Try it! Notice their appreciation. They will have a lot to say - be sure to listen! This positive dynamic is priceless. It will certainly add to the bottom line. Learn more about Water Cooler Wisdom »

Reward Your Staff

I would like to pass along a simple suggestion that I have recommended to many clients over the years. Surprise your staff with something positive and out of the ordinary and unexpected from time to time. Doing this truly adds a little excitement to your organization and results in an appreciative staff. Buy a pair of movie tickets (passes) for each employee. Put them in an envelope with a note as simple as, "Have a great evening out, thanks for working here." You will be surprised how much good will a $15 investment will yield. The good will lingers as people eventually get to the movies over time. - Scott Delman What's your reward program or story you would like to share with other readers? Click on "Reward Your Staff" link to the RIGHT Now, are you ready to have some fun! What would you REALLY like to say to a co-worker, customer, even the boss if you could get away with it? Well, now you can! Click on the “If I Could Only Say It” link (to the right) and send in your anonymous, off the record comments. Printable responses will be published in future editions (coming out soon), and your name will never appear. This should be a real hoot! Check out the Water Cooler Wisdom web site »