Improving customer service scores isn’t just about better training or implementing new technologies—it’s deeply rooted in the happiness and well-being of your employees. Studies have consistently shown that happier employees provide better customer service, leading to higher customer satisfaction and loyalty.

A study from Glassdoor revealed that companies with happier employees tend to have higher customer satisfaction scores, particularly in businesses where front-line employees interact directly with customers. When employees feel valued and satisfied, they’re more likely to be engaged, motivated, and patient, all of which translate into better customer service​ (CX Central).

The FISH! Philosophy can play a pivotal role in creating this positive environment, where employee happiness directly impacts customer satisfaction. Here’s how to leverage FISH! principles to improve your customer service scores:

1. Be There

When employees are fully present with customers, they can address concerns more effectively, leading to better customer experiences. This requires a work environment where employees aren’t just physically present but are also mentally and emotionally engaged. Studies show that reducing workplace stress and fostering a supportive environment makes it easier for employees to focus on their interactions with customers​ (CX Central).

2. Play

Encouraging a playful and creative work atmosphere not only makes the job more enjoyable but also enhances the way employees interact with customers. Happy employees bring positive energy into their work, making customer interactions more memorable. Companies like Southwest Airlines, known for their playful culture, consistently score high in customer satisfaction due to this approach​ (McKinsey & Company).

3. Make Their Day

When employees go out of their way to make a customer’s day, it creates a lasting impression. Simple acts of kindness or personalized service can turn a mundane experience into something exceptional. This behavior is often seen in companies where employees feel genuinely happy and valued, leading to higher creativity and a greater willingness to exceed customer expectations​ (HR Future).

4. Choose Your Attitude

A positive attitude is contagious. When employees choose to bring positivity into their workday, it reflects in every customer interaction. Happy employees are more resilient, less likely to become frustrated, and better equipped to handle difficult situations, all of which contribute to better customer service​ (CX Central).

By focusing on creating a workplace where employees feel supported, valued, and engaged, you’ll not only improve their job satisfaction but also see a significant boost in customer service scores. The FISH! Philosophy provides a framework to cultivate this kind of environment, ensuring that your employees’ happiness leads to happier customers and, ultimately, better business outcomes.

How to Have More Fun at Work

Creating a fun and engaging work environment isn’t just about adding a ping-pong table in the break room or organizing occasional team outings. It’s about fostering a culture where joy, energy, and connection are part of everyday work life. The FISH! Philosophy provides practical steps to help you make your workplace more vibrant and enjoyable. These strategies might seem basic – but you can’t force fun, you have to transform your culture so that fun happens organically! Let’s dive into five keys to boost fun at work the FISH! way.

1. Be There

Being present and engaged with your colleagues builds trust and connection, creating a foundation for a more enjoyable workplace. When you’re fully attentive, it shows you care. A survey of 2,000-plus employees by Bright HR, a UK company, reveals how people see fun at work. Most people in the survey defined fun at work as “having great colleagues they enjoy spending time with.”

Pro Tips:

• Active Listening: Show your team you value their ideas by really listening. Nod, ask follow-up questions, and summarize what you heard.
• Technology-Free Time: Designate specific times or meetings where laptops and phones are put away to encourage focused, face-to-face interactions.

Actionable Steps:

• Schedule regular one-on-one check-ins with team members to discuss their thoughts and ideas. When people feel heard and supported, they are more likely to find fulfillment and enjoyment.
• Implement a “no devices” policy during key meetings to ensure full engagement.

2. Play

Play isn’t just for children. It’s a state of mind that encourages creativity and innovation. It makes work more enjoyable and can lead to unexpected solutions.

Pro Tips:

• Team Challenges: Introduce fun, work-friendly challenges that promote friendly competition and teamwork – like corporate olympics or office scavenger hunts.
• Creative Breaks: Shedule short breaks during the day to recharge and inspire. Encourage your team to play simple board games together or to just sit and chat.

Actionable Steps:

• Organize a weekly creative brainstorming session where any idea is welcome, no matter how out-of-the-box.
• Create a “fun committee” to plan and execute small, spontaneous activities.

3. Make Their Day

When you make someone’s day, you boost their morale and create a positive ripple effect throughout the workplace. Small gestures of kindness can have a big impact.

Pro Tips:

• Personalized Praise: Recognize individual achievements and efforts with personalized, sincere praise.
• Random Acts of Kindness: Encourage acts of kindness, like leaving a thank-you note or bringing in treats for the team.

Actionable Steps:

• Start a recognition program where employees can acknowledge each other’s contributions.
• Encourage each team member to perform one act of kindness per week.

4. Choose Your Attitude

Attitude is a choice. Choosing a positive, proactive attitude, especially in challenging situations, sets the tone for the entire team, helping them feel less stressed, more empowered, and more likely to enjoy their day!

Pro Tips:

• Morning Rituals: Develop morning rituals that help set a positive tone for the day, like a team huddle with a motivational quote or snacks!
• Self-Reflection: Encourage team members to reflect on their attitudes and support them as they identify areas for improvement.

Actionable Steps:

• Offer workshops or resources on stress management and positive thinking.

5. Keep Learning

A workplace that values learning is always evolving, growing, and staying engaged. Encourage continuous learning to keep the environment dynamic and stimulating.

Pro Tips:

• Skill-Sharing Sessions: Host regular sessions where team members can share their expertise on different topics.
• Learning Challenges: Introduce challenges that encourage learning new skills relevant to your industry.

Actionable Steps:

• Provide access to online courses or bring in guest speakers to inspire and educate your team.
• Set up a mentorship program where experienced employees can guide others in their development.

Bringing It All Together

Creating a fun workplace isn’t a one-time effort but an ongoing commitment to fostering a culture of engagement, creativity, and connection. By being present, playing, making someone’s day, choosing your attitude, and continually learning, you can transform your work environment into a place where everyone thrives.

Start with small changes and watch how these principles can make a big difference. Remember, the FISH! Philosophy isn’t just about having fun—it’s about creating a workplace where people are excited to contribute and collaborate every day.

Try these tips and watch the magic unfold in your workplace! ????

As AI revolutionizes the workplace, fostering team engagement and developing essential skills have never been more crucial. According to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2023, the top five skills gaining importance are creative thinking, analytical thinking, technological literacy, curiosity and lifelong learning, and resilience, flexibility, and agility. The FISH! Philosophy, with its core practices of Play, Make Their Day, Be There, and Choose Your Attitude, offers a powerful framework to cultivate these skills and drive team growth.

1. Creative Thinking

Embrace Play

Creative thinking thrives in environments where team members feel free to experiment and explore new ideas. The FISH! Philosophy encourages “Play,” not in a frivolous sense, but as a way to spark innovation and joy in the workplace. By creating a culture where team members can think outside the box and have fun with their work, you foster an atmosphere that nurtures creativity. Try hosting monthly brainstorming sessions where every idea is valued, no matter how unconventional. This openness can lead to groundbreaking solutions and fresh perspectives that drive your team forward. Some people use Nerf guns in the office, we prefer to throw Pete the Perch around during meetings! Anyway you decide to play at work, make sure it’s something your team really enjoys.

2. Analytical Thinking

Choose Your Attitude

Analytical thinking requires a mindset that is focused, deliberate, and reflective. The FISH! Philosophy’s practice “Choose Your Attitude” empowers team members to approach problems with a positive and constructive mindset. By consciously choosing a proactive attitude, employees can better analyze situations, identify patterns, and make informed decisions. Encourage your team to view challenges as opportunities for growth, fostering a culture of critical thinking and problem-solving. Try starting any tough, problem-solving meeting by reaffirming that your team can beat this challenge and share examples of past successes. This attitude will help your team reframe the issue so their analysis is not focused on limitations.

3. Technological Literacy

Be There

In the age of AI, technological literacy is indispensable. The FISH! Philosophy’s practice “Be There” emphasizes the importance of presence and engagement. Encourage your team to stay updated with the latest technological advancements and actively participate in training sessions. Being fully present in these learning opportunities allows team members to grasp new technologies quickly and apply them effectively. Promote a culture where continuous learning and skill development are prioritized, ensuring your team remains technologically adept and competitive. On great way to Be There during any technological transition is to either host in-person small group listening sessions, or schedule virtual one on ones to check in with each team member to see how they are doing and address individual questions. This degree of attentiveness will make sure your co-workers feel listened to and that their opinions and feelings are valued.

4. Curiosity & Lifelong Learning

Make Their Day

Curiosity and a commitment to lifelong learning are essential for adapting to the rapid changes brought by AI. The FISH! Philosophy’s “Make Their Day” practice focuses on creating a positive impact on others, which can be extended to fostering a learning culture. Encourage team members to share knowledge and support each other’s learning journeys. Celebrate milestones and achievements, no matter how small, to motivate continuous growth and exploration. By creating an environment where curiosity is valued, you inspire your team to seek out new knowledge and stay ahead of industry trends. One great way to make your team’s day and encourage curiosity at the same time is to host monthly lunch and learns where one member of the team teaches the rest about something they are passionate about, work-related or otherwise. Imagine a co-worker leading a cooking class, or perhaps someone teaching your team the basics of knitting! It’s a great opportunity to create lasting memories and allow new people to step up.

5. Resilience, Flexibility, & Agility

Play and Choose Your Attitude

Resilience, flexibility, and agility are critical in navigating the uncertainties of the AI-driven workplace. The FISH! Philosophy’s practice of “Play” and “Choose Your Attitude” play a significant role in building these qualities. Embrace a playful approach to challenges, encouraging your team to adapt quickly and find joy in overcoming obstacles. By choosing a positive attitude, team members can remain resilient in the face of setbacks and agile in their responses to change. Foster a supportive environment where flexibility is encouraged, and team members feel confident to pivot when necessary. If you can identify safe opportunities to test whacky and creative solutions to problems, your team will not only have fun, but you’ll likely learn key insights into the problem even if the new solution doesn’t pan out.

Conclusion

Incorporating the FISH! Philosophy into your workplace culture can significantly enhance team engagement and develop the skills needed for the future of work. By fostering creative and analytical thinking, promoting technological literacy, nurturing curiosity and lifelong learning, and building resilience, flexibility, and agility, you empower your team to thrive in the age of AI. Embrace the FISH! Philosophy and watch your team grow, adapt, and excel in an ever-evolving landscape.

For more insights and practical tips on improving workplace culture and communication, explore the FISH! Philosophy blog.

In today’s interconnected global economy, the importance of teamwork has become increasingly apparent. A study highlighted by the Harvard Business Review notes a 50% increase in time spent on collaborative activities over the last two decades. This shift underscores the need for effective teamwork, prompting both organizations and academic researchers to seek ways to enhance team performance.

One notable example is Google’s research into team dynamics, as detailed by Charles Duhigg in The New York Times. Google’s extensive study of its teams sought to identify why some were more successful than others. Initial factors such as team composition, mission alignment, and individual skills did not explain the variance in performance.

Further investigation revealed that the highest-performing teams shared a common trait: the manner in which team members interacted. Duhigg reported that these teams were marked by equal participation in discussions and an enhanced sensitivity to each member’s feelings.

The concept of “psychological safety,” identified as a critical component of successful teams by Google, poses the question: How can this supportive culture be fostered? Duhigg shares an example of a team whose manager encouraged openness by sharing his personal struggle with advanced cancer. This act of vulnerability prompted team members to share their own challenges and shifted the team’s dynamic, enhancing trust and support.

This real-world example mirrors the philosophy behind John Christensen’s observation at the Pike Place Fish Market, where he noted the high levels of enthusiasm, joy, and synergy among the fishmongers. Inspired by author David Whyte’s insight that much of our passion and creativity is left at home, Christensen recognized the need to fulfill emotional needs at work to improve overall performance.

Christensen’s company, ChartHouse Learning, produced a film titled FISH! about the fishmongers, introducing The FISH! Philosophy. This philosophy comprises four practices that build the foundation for effective work cultures:

• Be There: This practice encourages a culture where everyone feels heard and supported, enabling better service to both colleagues and customers.
• Make Their Day: Through this, individuals show their colleagues and customers that they are valued, enhancing mutual respect and motivation.
• Play: This practice allows for the exploration of new ideas and authentic self-expression in a safe environment, contributing to the sense of psychological safety.
• Choose Your Attitude: This empowers individuals to be mindful of their impact on others and to actively shape the kind of day they wish to experience, promoting a positive and productive work environment.

The FISH! Philosophy goes beyond creating a happy workforce; it empowers people to utilize all their resources—job training, experience, strategy—and collaborate more effectively. Though sometimes referred to as “soft” skills, these practices form the solid backbone of team excellence, proving essential for high-performing teams.

Interested in Implementing FISH! in Your Organization?

Discover how the FISH! Philosophy can transform your workplace culture. Book a meeting with a FISH! Guide to get started or learn more!

Reference:

Duhigg, Charles. “What Google Learned From Its Quest to Build the Perfect Team.” The New York Times Magazine, February 28, 2016.

 

In the bustling rhythm of the modern workplace, finding moments to step away from the screens and stretch our legs can be a rarity. Yet, there’s an incredibly simple, profoundly effective tool for boosting your workday that might just be hiding in plain sight. Taking a walk with a coworker isn’t just a way to fit some exercise into your day—it’s a strategic move that can foster better relationships, enhance creativity, and even improve your overall job satisfaction.

Being There: Strengthening Connections on the Go

“Being There” is about being emotionally present for people. It’s about supporting your colleagues not just in the context of work tasks but in the broader, more human aspects of daily life. Walking with a coworker pulls you away from digital distractions and office formalities, creating a unique space for undivided attention and authentic connection. This informal setting reduces barriers, encourages open dialogue, and deepens trust, making it easier to engage in meaningful conversations without the pressure of an office environment.

Choose Your Attitude: A Walk to Reset and Reenergize

A walk is a chance to reset your mindset and approach the rest of the day with a renewed, positive outlook. The physical movement, change of scenery, and break from routine work together to help you return to your desk with a healthier, more constructive attitude, ready to tackle challenges with a smile. You also might find an opportunity to help your coworker turn a bad day around, or they might do the same for you!

Make Their Day: Sharing the Path

Walking with someone can turn an ordinary day into something special. It’s an opportunity to make a colleague’s day through simple acts of kindness, like listening attentively, sharing a laugh, or offering encouragement. These moments not only enhance your relationships but also contribute to a supportive, friendly office culture where everyone feels valued and understood.

Play: Sparking Creativity with Every Step

Going for a walk injects a sense of lightness and fun into your day. Moving around playfully sparks creativity, helping you and your walking partner come up with fresh ideas and perspectives that might seem elusive in more formal settings. Stanford University research highlights that walking increases creative output by an average of 60%, validating that playful activities like walking can significantly boost intellectual performance.

Incorporating Walks into Your Work Routine

To weave these principles into the fabric of your workday, consider these ideas:

• Schedule Walking Meetings: Instead of sitting through another conference room meeting, propose a walking meeting for smaller groups or one-on-one discussions.
• Encourage Regular Walk Breaks: Promote regular walk breaks to help colleagues disconnect, refresh, and engage. It’s a fantastic way to practice ‘Being There’ and ‘Choose Your Attitude.’
• Organize Group Walks: Foster a sense of community and team spirit by organizing walk groups. This not only supports physical health but also builds a culture of inclusivity and mutual support.

In essence, taking a walk with a coworker leverages the full spectrum of the FISH! Philosophy, transforming a simple activity into a powerful tool for enhancing workplace culture. It’s an investment in your health, your relationships, and your overall job satisfaction. Why not make the best meeting of the week one that gets you up and moving? Step out, be present, and enjoy the journey together.

Interested in Implementing FISH! in Your Organization?

Discover how the FISH! Philosophy can transform your workplace culture. Book a meeting with a FISH! Guide to get started or learn more!

Conquer Drama by Choosing Your Attitude

Ever experienced a day like Alexander’s from the classic children’s book – where everything seems to go wrong from the moment you wake up? We all have! While occasional drama and negativity are part of life, it doesn’t mean we’re powerless against them. Your attitude plays a crucial role in shaping your interactions and overall day.

Transform Your Days: The Power of Positive Attitude

Here’s the exciting part: you can choose to start each day with optimism and eagerness for new opportunities. Although not foolproof, adopting a positive attitude can significantly enhance your life. Let’s dive into four practical ways to make this choice:

Mindfulness: The First Step to a Positive Day

Start your morning with a quick self-check. Assess how you’re feeling physically and emotionally. Recognizing your current state of mind empowers you to decide how you want to feel moving forward.

Prepare for Challenges: Anticipate and Adapt

Emotional reactions are natural, but preparing for foreseeable challenges can help you maintain your chosen attitude. If a tough meeting or deadline is on the horizon, plan your emotional response in advance. This prep work makes it easier to tackle stress with the attitude you desire.

Curiosity: A Positive Spin on Every Situation

Negative reactions often stem from a lack of understanding. Adopting a curious mindset helps you approach situations more positively. Embrace the FISH! Philosophy’s Play pillar: collaborate with new colleagues, consider fresh ideas, and keep an open mind.

Visualize Success: The Power of Positive Thinking

Manifesting has become a buzzword, but there’s truth in using visualization to shape your emotional state. Before tackling a challenging task, imagine a successful outcome. This mental practice can shift your attitude from stress to positivity.

Choose Your Attitude: A Vital FISH! Philosophy Pillar

Choosing your attitude is a key component of the FISH! Philosophy. It not only enhances your own day but also positively impacts your workplace and colleagues. Remember, this pillar works hand-in-hand with the other three: Be There, Make Their Day, and Play.

Reflection Points:

• Do you take a moment each morning to assess how you’re feeling? Try incorporating this into your routine.
• How do you prepare emotionally for stressful situations? Do you align your strategies with your values?
• Reflect on how choosing your attitude influences your practice of the other FISH! Philosophy pillars.

Interested in Implementing FISH! in Your Organization?

Discover how the FISH! Philosophy can transform your workplace culture. Book a meeting with a FISH! Guide to get started or learn more!

By Rebecca Cianci

In the vast ocean of educational strategies, one philosophy is making waves with its simplistic yet profoundly impactful approach: The FISH! Philosophy. It’s a philosophy that has been adopted in various sectors, but its relevance in education has never been more pertinent. With its four core practices – Play, Make Their Day, Be There, and Choose Your Attitude – FISH! is not just a philosophy; it’s a transformative mindset that reinvigorates the educational landscape.

The Power of Play in Learning

Imagine a classroom where the rigidity of traditional learning dissipates, replaced by the sounds of laughter, the sight of smiles, and the feeling of genuine enthusiasm for learning. Play, the first pillar of the FISH! Philosophy, introduces a dynamic energy into the learning environment. It encourages students to see learning as a thrilling adventure. Through play, concepts are not just absorbed; they are experienced. This playful approach does more than just captivate students; it reignites educators’ passion for teaching, turning every lesson into an exploration of knowledge.

Making Their Day: The Art of Appreciation

A simple act of kindness, a word of encouragement, a moment of recognition – these are the gestures that embody the ‘Make Their Day’ principle. In the context of education, this practice weaves a strong fabric of community within classrooms and schools. When students feel seen and acknowledged, their confidence blooms like flowers in spring. Similarly, when educators feel valued, their commitment deepens, creating a ripple effect of positivity. This environment of mutual respect and appreciation underpins a thriving educational ecosystem where everyone’s contribution is celebrated.

Being There: The Gift of Presence

The third practice, ‘Be There’, is about the gift of undivided attention. In an educational setting, this means creating a sanctuary where students feel secure and supported. When educators are fully present, they can tune into the subtle nuances of their students’ needs. Being there goes beyond physical presence; it’s about emotional and intellectual engagement. This attentive presence fosters a safe space where students can express themselves, share their thoughts, and navigate the learning journey with the assurance that they are not alone.

Choosing Your Attitude: The Classroom Climate Changer

Attitude is the weather vane of the mind, and the ‘Choose Your Attitude’ principle is about setting it in a positive direction. It empowers both students and educators to approach the daily challenges of education with optimism. It’s about facing a difficult math problem or a complex teaching day with the belief that every challenge is surmountable. This attitude is infectious, inspiring resilience, and a can-do spirit that turns obstacles into stepping stones.

FISH! In Practice: A Splash of Inspiration

Implementing the FISH! Philosophy in education has the potential to revitalize how students learn and educators teach. It is about painting the educational journey with vibrant colors of joy, curiosity, and unwavering positivity. But what does this look like in practice? Examples include introduction of an initiative to integrate more active learning strategies into the curriculum saw faculty members weaving the FISH! Philosophy into their pedagogy. By incorporating gamified learning experiences into their courses, they witnessed a surge in student participation. The ‘Play’ element transformed lectures into interactive sessions where students were not only listeners but active participants in creating knowledge. The ‘Make Their Day’ principle took form in recognizing student achievements through a “Student of the Month” program, celebrating both academic and extracurricular accomplishments. The impact? A noticeable increase in student morale and a deeper connection to the educational community. For ‘Be There’, advisors implemented weekly check-in hours dedicated to addressing student concerns – academic or otherwise. This practice cultivated trust and showed students that their voices were not just heard but valued. Finally, ‘Choose Your Attitude’ was manifested in workshops designed for both students and staff focusing on mindset development, where the discussion centered on transforming challenges into growth opportunities. The result was a shift in the campus culture, with more individuals approaching their tasks with a constructive outlook.

Casting the Net Wide: The Influence of FISH! in Public Service

When we consider the broader implications of FISH! in public service, particularly education, we see that these principles are crucial for nurturing a culture of connection and well-being. They are tools to address workforce challenges like recruitment and retention, especially when external factors such as compensation may be out of balance. The practices of creating belonging, fostering relationships through play, offering recognition, and maintaining a positive atmosphere are actionable strategies for building an inclusive, supportive, and productive work environment. These efforts lead to a workforce that is not just satisfied but also more engaged and equipped to provide exceptional educational experiences.

In closing, let us consider the FISH! Philosophy as more than just a teaching tool; it is a catalyst for creating a vibrant educational community where learning is a celebration, educators are inspirers, and students are the enthusiastic architects of their futures. Dive into FISH! and watch the transformation unfold in the halls of education.

About the Author – Rebecca Cianci

With her rich experience in diverse sectors like the US military, healthcare, and education, Rebecca has been a transformative figure in implementing the FISH! Philosophy since 1997. Her expertise has revolutionized training and HR strategies at organizations, fostering cultures of continuous learning and vibrant, supportive work environments. As an educator and facilitator, Rebecca masterfully combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications, emphasizing joy and productivity in the workplace.

Inspire Vision and Commitment in Every Situation

Leadership is more than holding a position of authority. Regardless of the external circumstances, leaders are called to inspire, motivate, and guide their teams with passion and vision.

Understanding Different Leadership Styles

Title Leaders vs. Mantle Leaders:

Title Leaders: These leaders enjoy the perks of their position – access, provision, and influence. However, their leadership often lacks depth beyond these privileges.

Mantle Leaders: They bear more than just the title. Alongside their responsibilities, they experience challenges and joys, remaining steadfast in their commitment to their people.

The Power of Presence in Leadership

Mantle leaders excel in being truly present for their team. They listen empathetically, engage in their team’s experiences, and maintain a strong, supportive presence.

Leadership is More Than a Position

The mantle of leadership is not just given with a promotion. It’s earned through a deep commitment to serve and guide your team with compassion and understanding.

A Protective Force in All Situations

A true leader is like a shelter, providing guidance and stability whether times are smooth or challenging. Their unwavering presence is a testament to their dedication to putting others first.

FISH! Philosophy Practice Focus: Be There

Being emotionally present is a fundamental act of respect. It enhances communication and fortifies relationships.

Points for Reflection:

Self-Assessment: Consider whether you are a title leader or a mantle leader. Reflect on how you can evolve your leadership style.

Empathy and Action: How has this article inspired you to deepen your empathy and commitment to your team?

Personal Insights: What lessons or new perspectives have you gained from this article and your reflections?

One of the biggest workforce challenges facing the education and public service industries is employee recruitment and retention. A big reason: lower compensation compared to the private sector. With inflation at its highest point in several decades, it’s harder for public servants to make a living, with some leaving for higher pay outside their industries. For example, in 2022 an Ohio teacher left his teaching job for a job at Walmart because it paid $12,000 more per year, even with 5.5 years of teaching experience. Unfortunately, employee compensation is directly controlled by funding allocated at the local, county, and state levels, creating challenges for public agencies. However, there are several aspects of the workplace that are within our control, especially a culture of belonging and workplace wellbeing, which can help improve employee recruitment and retention.

According to a recent article in Forbes, belonging is a top 2024 workforce strategy for increasing productivity. Furthermore, workplace safety and wellbeing are on the decline in 2024, according to another recent article in Forbes. Issues like belonging and wellbeing are more important now than ever, which can impact employee recruitment and retention by creating a workplace culture that employees want to be a part of and don’t want to leave, even for higher pay. The FISH! Philosophy is the perfect solution to create a workplace culture where employees belong and thrive. The following are some ways to use FISH! to create more belonging and wellbeing.

Be There for Others to Improve Belonging

We spend the majority of our waking hours at work. When we feel better connected to others in our workplace, we have a greater sense of belonging. We can accomplish this by being there for each other at work. Whether it’s being intentional by including everyone or simply helping a team member with a project, we foster a greater sense of belonging at work. This is not just essential in the workplace, but it’s a part of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. While belonging may not increase extrinsic rewards like compensation, it can increase intrinsic rewards like greater job satisfaction.

Play More to Strengthen Relationships

The great philosopher Plato said, “You can discover more about a person in an hour of play than in a year of conversation.” By incorporating more play into our work, we can learn more about others. For example, during a recent multi-day leadership training for the frontline leaders of our organization, a colleague planned and organized two social networking events – a bowling night and an indoor mini-golf night. Both events included dinner and activities. The goal for these events was to create a sense of belonging and community by building relationships through play. The feedback from these events was overwhelmingly positive. While the technical training during the daytime was important for our frontline leaders, the networking that took place during our evening social events was just as valuable, if not more. In addition to the relationships that were strengthened through play, our frontline leaders also felt valued by our organization investing funding and time in them through these fun events.

Make Their Day by Recognizing and Rewarding

Another way to improve belonging and wellbeing is by making time to recognize and reward employees regularly. Whether it’s informal recognition like an email or handwritten thank you note or formal recognition like an award, we can make their day by showing appreciation and value for our employees. For example, here at NC State University we have the PAWS and Say Thanks program, “an on-the-spot, peer-to-peer recognition program that allows employees to send electronic or physical thank-you cards to outstanding colleagues throughout the university.” This is just one simple automated way to recognize our employees for doing outstanding work. While it may not cost a lot of money to build an automated email system like this, it can go a long way in improving belonging and wellbeing by employees feeling appreciated and valued.

Choose Your Attitude to Improve Wellbeing

It’s often been said that employees “leave their manager, not their job.” One of the other biggest retention challenges, in addition to compensation, is a toxic work environment. This is especially true for the employee’s manager. It’s also been said that an employee’s manager has more impact on their overall health than their doctor or therapist. That’s why choose your attitude is such an important practice, especially for managers. When managers choose a positive attitude, it has a positive impact on employee wellbeing. When managers choose a negative attitude, it has a negative impact on employee wellbeing. By choosing a positive attitude by not bullying or micromanaging, it improves employee wellbeing, which improves retention.

About the Author:

David J. Herpy, M.S. serves as Extension Organizational Development Coordinator at NC State University in Raleigh, NC, where he is responsible for developing and implementing professional and leadership development programs for a workforce of over 1,000 employees with NC Cooperative Extension Service, working in collaboration with their Extension leadership team. Prior to his current role, Dave worked with summer camps for over twenty-five years as a camp counselor, camp director, and state camping specialist. He has also served as a graduate teaching associate and adjunct lecturer at three universities for over the past twenty years, as well as a freelance facilitator, trainer, and writer for over the past decade.

For more information, check out Dave’s website or email him directly at dherpy@yahoo.com

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