In the book "E+mc2 Relative to Business" the authors site Carl Snider and his "How to Create A Brain Storming Environment." Some of Carl's suggestions are:
- Start Early
- Schedule a Follow-up Call
- Allow humor and a little fooling around.
- No Starting without all Member of the Brain Storming Team.
- No judgement allowed. The way Carl enforces this rule is to issue "tickets" to the violators of this rule. The fine for the infraction is that the 'judger" must purchase the donuts for the next brain storming session.
In a very enthusiastic session individuals might interrupt or cut team members off in order to get their "idea" out. Spontaneity is part of a fun workplace but louder team members (like me) tend to walk all over their more polite co-workers. We have started using the "speaking stick" which is just a piece of bamboo, that is passed between team members in a heated brain storming session. Whomever holds the bamboo, holds the floor. It's seems a little silly, but it the perfect way to make sure everyone will be heard.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
Carving the Slopes at the Office
Many offices have taken up competitve races in the office. "Office Chair" derby's "Office Chair" spinning competitions, and "Office Chair" obstacle courses have all been used to lighten up the workplace, as well as, creating a little bit of physical activity that allows people to return to work with a fresh perspective. Some workplaces (mine included) have a 2 wheeled scooter to take into the parking lot for a little spin when you need a break or for office competition. A new product has made it possible to "ski" at work. A product called the "Trikke" simulates the same sensation that you would have while downhill snow skiing. Real snow skiing wouldn't be a option for most workplaces, this gives almost any company a chance to it's employees "carve the slopes" without leaving the parking lot, or warehouse. It is a great phyical activity, easy for anyone to master, and unique enough that it is fun activity that most people wouldn't do on their own. As an activity that will help burn off stress, so employees come back recharged and focused, nothing can compare to hitting the slopes!
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Improving Workplace Morale With Corporate Fun Days
By: Gabriel_J._Adams
In any type of business, one of the most important aspects is your employee morale. While this may sound like some type of HR buzzword, it is a vital piece of the puzzle. Unhappy workers produce less work. Not to mention, the quality of the work usually leaves something to be desired. Happy workers produce more quality work. This is a simple fact of the business world.
Whether you’re selling vacuum cleaners or doing taxes, unless you are having fun, your work will suffer. This is why it is essential to have corporate fun days in any business.
What are corporate fun days? The simple answer is that they are exactly what they sound like…a day where your corporation has fun. Sounds pretty easy, right? Is there a certain formula that should be followed to have a corporate fun day? Not exactly. The truth is that any number of activities should do the trick of boosting employee morale.
A popular activity among many companies is a company party. These parties usually coincide with the major holidays. A perfect example of this type of activity is the company Christmas party. Most companies have these and all of them are different. They can range from an all-out kegger to a gift exchange. The important thing is that everyone has fun. Don’t seclude anyone. Get all of the different departments of the business to coincide together.
Another popular activity is the company picnic. Most of us have been to these. These are usually pretty fun and can be held in a number of places. A park makes for a good time outdoors. These can be catered or pot-luck. The numbers of activities that can be held at the company picnic are only limited by your imagination.
While both of these activities that were mentioned are great, the key is creativity. Don’t just have some standard party every year that everyone grows to hate. Mix it up a little. Variety is important to corporate fun days. The more original the idea, the more fun everyone will have. The idea is to take everyone’s mind off of their jobs for a little while. You are not your job. You want everyone to realize Jim from accounting is actually a pretty cool guy. The beauty of corporate fun days is that you get to see the actual person. Corporate fun days are crucial to the morale of your employees. The happier the employee, the better they work.
Written for National Web Design Website information services on behalf of Kaleidoscope Corporate Fun Days.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gabriel_J._Adams
In any type of business, one of the most important aspects is your employee morale. While this may sound like some type of HR buzzword, it is a vital piece of the puzzle. Unhappy workers produce less work. Not to mention, the quality of the work usually leaves something to be desired. Happy workers produce more quality work. This is a simple fact of the business world.
Whether you’re selling vacuum cleaners or doing taxes, unless you are having fun, your work will suffer. This is why it is essential to have corporate fun days in any business.
What are corporate fun days? The simple answer is that they are exactly what they sound like…a day where your corporation has fun. Sounds pretty easy, right? Is there a certain formula that should be followed to have a corporate fun day? Not exactly. The truth is that any number of activities should do the trick of boosting employee morale.
A popular activity among many companies is a company party. These parties usually coincide with the major holidays. A perfect example of this type of activity is the company Christmas party. Most companies have these and all of them are different. They can range from an all-out kegger to a gift exchange. The important thing is that everyone has fun. Don’t seclude anyone. Get all of the different departments of the business to coincide together.
Another popular activity is the company picnic. Most of us have been to these. These are usually pretty fun and can be held in a number of places. A park makes for a good time outdoors. These can be catered or pot-luck. The numbers of activities that can be held at the company picnic are only limited by your imagination.
While both of these activities that were mentioned are great, the key is creativity. Don’t just have some standard party every year that everyone grows to hate. Mix it up a little. Variety is important to corporate fun days. The more original the idea, the more fun everyone will have. The idea is to take everyone’s mind off of their jobs for a little while. You are not your job. You want everyone to realize Jim from accounting is actually a pretty cool guy. The beauty of corporate fun days is that you get to see the actual person. Corporate fun days are crucial to the morale of your employees. The happier the employee, the better they work.
Written for National Web Design Website information services on behalf of Kaleidoscope Corporate Fun Days.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gabriel_J._Adams
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
A Sense of Humor in the Workplace... Is it me? Or, was that not funny?
By: Edward B. Toupin
When I was first initiated into Corporate America, I had a sense of humor that went unmatched by any mortal soul. I was quick-witted, smart, sharp, and knew every gag and joke available to humanity. Most of it, I learned in college. But, college never really did teach the fact that having a sense of humor in the workplace is different than 'jocularity.' After a few brushes with career-chaos, I realized that the definition of 'corporate humor' deals with how one handles oneself and not how one can elicit laughter.
--- Where did this come from? ---
One of my friends came to Las Vegas last week to visit and relax a bit. He and I went out and checked out some of the local bands. During the course of the evening, he brought up some issues about his current job situation. After some introductory words, we discussed the issue that he seems to get blamed for some of the stupidest things, that he never did, and no one takes him seriously anymore. Then, he cracked some joke about it and we carried on.
Not being taken seriously by your peers is actually a common problem with people who do have a sense of humor. But, funny has no place in the workplace and can easily wreak havoc on an otherwise blossoming career.
--- So, no more laughter? ---
Of course, laughter is necessary in life. But, in a professional setting, it becomes a different type of laughter. One situation you will encounter as you move through your career is the seriousness of professionalism. Of course, to some, this is not a problem. But, to those that have a funny bone, this is a big problem and a detriment to one's career.
You have to realize that when your boss asks if you have a sense of humor, he's not asking if you're a clown. What he is asking is whether or not you can accept criticism, deal with difficult people, and gracefully handle mistakes without snapping people's heads off when things get stressful. It is important and considered professional to be able to take criticism lightly as it is sometimes used as a tool of 'turf wars' than an actual personal attack.
--- Hey, that was funny! ---
If you begin to crack jokes and make snide remarks, you will eventually not be taken seriously in the workplace. You will be seen as someone who wastes time because every time that someone approaches you to discuss a project or other issues with you, some of that time is spent explaining your humorous comments. Additionally, many corporate-minded individuals do not have the time to analyze comments with hidden meanings and will take what you say as absolute. Therefore, if you make a 'stupid' comment in hopes of eliciting a smile, your comment will be taken as an absolute and a representation of your professionalism in the workplace. Finally, if your comments do have hidden meanings or contain humorous connotations, then anything you say will be taken as unreliable, thus labeling you as unreliable.
Realize that the corporate culture labels you by 'visible change,' not completely by merit. What I mean is, the last way you presented yourself is the way that you will be seen in the workplace. If you are a serious, pleasant, and hard worker, you will be seen that way. If you crack a joke in the middle of a serious moment, from then on, you will be seen as a joker.
--- Look over there! ---
One thing to keep in mind is that many people crack jokes and make 'humorous' comments when they are uncomfortable or lack confidence in a situation. If this applies to you, realize that your peers know this as well. Being overly humorous under stress gives off a sign of weakness within the workplace and will also cause you to be ousted from the ranks.
Try to find another outlet for discomfort or confidence issues. Perhaps a favorite ink pen or a small quartz crystal to toy with in such situations will remind you to maintain your professional façade as well as keep you calm.
--- Watch what you say! ---
One of the big problems facing corporate cultures today is that, in general, everyone is 'sensitive' to everything. Instead of working together for a common goal, there are individuals that stay on their toes looking for that one thing that they can use to cause some sort of upheaval within the culture. With that, corporate-minded peers are also on the lookout for those who might do or say something to upset those sensitive individuals.
Because of this situation, there truly is no room in a standard corporate culture for remarks and comments that in certain groups might otherwise be humorous. You have to realize that when you speak within a corporate culture, be concise, be realistic, and do not add comedic breaks or sarcasm. Since everyone is taking everything 'seriously' with a 'sense of humor' for themselves, then whatever you say will be taken seriously and could easily land you in hot water.
To alleviate the chance of being misinterpreted, keep emotion and personal beliefs out of the context of your conversations. Basically, listen closely and be concise in what you say. Not only does this eliminate the problem of having people take you wrong, but it also saves a lot of time.
--- The Deadly Silence ---
There are several little games played within the corporate environment to elicit a fatal comment from the unwary. The most deadly game is the 'long pause.' In many cases, you might sit before your boss, or peers, and provide information on a particular subject or project. During the course of the discussion, you notice that your audience appears to be listening to everything you say. Then, at the end of your soliloquy, the audience seems dead or stuck in a mental time warp. This pause can last for as long as 10 seconds.
During this pause, it might seem as though your audience is mulling through your comments, but this is not entirely the case. They are creating an uncomfortable pause for you to begin doubting your comments in hopes that you divulge additional information and demonstrate your lack of confidence and discomfort.
This situation will get you every single time if you're not aware that it is only a game. One purpose of this game is so that the audience can acquire additional information from you that you would have otherwise never divulged. On the other hand, the audience might be trying to acquire your nonsensical traits from your discomfort to use during a future turf war. Again, be concise, and then listen. Wait out the infinite pause without saying a word and you'll see that they were just waiting for you to speak.
--- What's next? ---
Realize that you can still have fun and enjoy your work without the frolicky antics of a pubescent employee. One mishap can destroy a lifetime of kudos making it is easier to fall from graces than to repair a reputation. Companies want people they can count on 100% of the time, not just when you're serious and comfortable. Focus, take responsibility, move forward competently, and produce quality results.
If you've already fallen because of your sense of humor, then you will have to work hard to get back into the good graces of the culture. All you have to do is maintain a professional façade, realize that corporate America is 'not personal,' and motivate in your career with confidence.
About The Author:
Edward B. Toupin is a published author, technical writer, web developer, coach, and producer living in "The Entertainment Capital of the World," Las Vegas, NV. One of his primary objectives in his work is to provide information to help others achieve fulfilling lives. Visit his site at http://encouragement.netfirms.com/ and http://www.toupin.com/ or contact him at etoupin@toupin.com or lifecoach@toupin.com for more information.
When I was first initiated into Corporate America, I had a sense of humor that went unmatched by any mortal soul. I was quick-witted, smart, sharp, and knew every gag and joke available to humanity. Most of it, I learned in college. But, college never really did teach the fact that having a sense of humor in the workplace is different than 'jocularity.' After a few brushes with career-chaos, I realized that the definition of 'corporate humor' deals with how one handles oneself and not how one can elicit laughter.
--- Where did this come from? ---
One of my friends came to Las Vegas last week to visit and relax a bit. He and I went out and checked out some of the local bands. During the course of the evening, he brought up some issues about his current job situation. After some introductory words, we discussed the issue that he seems to get blamed for some of the stupidest things, that he never did, and no one takes him seriously anymore. Then, he cracked some joke about it and we carried on.
Not being taken seriously by your peers is actually a common problem with people who do have a sense of humor. But, funny has no place in the workplace and can easily wreak havoc on an otherwise blossoming career.
--- So, no more laughter? ---
Of course, laughter is necessary in life. But, in a professional setting, it becomes a different type of laughter. One situation you will encounter as you move through your career is the seriousness of professionalism. Of course, to some, this is not a problem. But, to those that have a funny bone, this is a big problem and a detriment to one's career.
You have to realize that when your boss asks if you have a sense of humor, he's not asking if you're a clown. What he is asking is whether or not you can accept criticism, deal with difficult people, and gracefully handle mistakes without snapping people's heads off when things get stressful. It is important and considered professional to be able to take criticism lightly as it is sometimes used as a tool of 'turf wars' than an actual personal attack.
--- Hey, that was funny! ---
If you begin to crack jokes and make snide remarks, you will eventually not be taken seriously in the workplace. You will be seen as someone who wastes time because every time that someone approaches you to discuss a project or other issues with you, some of that time is spent explaining your humorous comments. Additionally, many corporate-minded individuals do not have the time to analyze comments with hidden meanings and will take what you say as absolute. Therefore, if you make a 'stupid' comment in hopes of eliciting a smile, your comment will be taken as an absolute and a representation of your professionalism in the workplace. Finally, if your comments do have hidden meanings or contain humorous connotations, then anything you say will be taken as unreliable, thus labeling you as unreliable.
Realize that the corporate culture labels you by 'visible change,' not completely by merit. What I mean is, the last way you presented yourself is the way that you will be seen in the workplace. If you are a serious, pleasant, and hard worker, you will be seen that way. If you crack a joke in the middle of a serious moment, from then on, you will be seen as a joker.
--- Look over there! ---
One thing to keep in mind is that many people crack jokes and make 'humorous' comments when they are uncomfortable or lack confidence in a situation. If this applies to you, realize that your peers know this as well. Being overly humorous under stress gives off a sign of weakness within the workplace and will also cause you to be ousted from the ranks.
Try to find another outlet for discomfort or confidence issues. Perhaps a favorite ink pen or a small quartz crystal to toy with in such situations will remind you to maintain your professional façade as well as keep you calm.
--- Watch what you say! ---
One of the big problems facing corporate cultures today is that, in general, everyone is 'sensitive' to everything. Instead of working together for a common goal, there are individuals that stay on their toes looking for that one thing that they can use to cause some sort of upheaval within the culture. With that, corporate-minded peers are also on the lookout for those who might do or say something to upset those sensitive individuals.
Because of this situation, there truly is no room in a standard corporate culture for remarks and comments that in certain groups might otherwise be humorous. You have to realize that when you speak within a corporate culture, be concise, be realistic, and do not add comedic breaks or sarcasm. Since everyone is taking everything 'seriously' with a 'sense of humor' for themselves, then whatever you say will be taken seriously and could easily land you in hot water.
To alleviate the chance of being misinterpreted, keep emotion and personal beliefs out of the context of your conversations. Basically, listen closely and be concise in what you say. Not only does this eliminate the problem of having people take you wrong, but it also saves a lot of time.
--- The Deadly Silence ---
There are several little games played within the corporate environment to elicit a fatal comment from the unwary. The most deadly game is the 'long pause.' In many cases, you might sit before your boss, or peers, and provide information on a particular subject or project. During the course of the discussion, you notice that your audience appears to be listening to everything you say. Then, at the end of your soliloquy, the audience seems dead or stuck in a mental time warp. This pause can last for as long as 10 seconds.
During this pause, it might seem as though your audience is mulling through your comments, but this is not entirely the case. They are creating an uncomfortable pause for you to begin doubting your comments in hopes that you divulge additional information and demonstrate your lack of confidence and discomfort.
This situation will get you every single time if you're not aware that it is only a game. One purpose of this game is so that the audience can acquire additional information from you that you would have otherwise never divulged. On the other hand, the audience might be trying to acquire your nonsensical traits from your discomfort to use during a future turf war. Again, be concise, and then listen. Wait out the infinite pause without saying a word and you'll see that they were just waiting for you to speak.
--- What's next? ---
Realize that you can still have fun and enjoy your work without the frolicky antics of a pubescent employee. One mishap can destroy a lifetime of kudos making it is easier to fall from graces than to repair a reputation. Companies want people they can count on 100% of the time, not just when you're serious and comfortable. Focus, take responsibility, move forward competently, and produce quality results.
If you've already fallen because of your sense of humor, then you will have to work hard to get back into the good graces of the culture. All you have to do is maintain a professional façade, realize that corporate America is 'not personal,' and motivate in your career with confidence.
About The Author:
Edward B. Toupin is a published author, technical writer, web developer, coach, and producer living in "The Entertainment Capital of the World," Las Vegas, NV. One of his primary objectives in his work is to provide information to help others achieve fulfilling lives. Visit his site at http://encouragement.netfirms.com/ and http://www.toupin.com/ or contact him at etoupin@toupin.com or lifecoach@toupin.com for more information.
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
We All Work in a Fish Bowl
Martha Pompeo writes:
We are an Independent Insurance Agency in Boulder Colorado (Taggart Insurance) consisting of approximately 36 employees. I am the Commercial Lines Supervisor of approx 12 women. I’ve had fish for a couple of years (various ones since a couple have committed “fishicide” over the years). Recently, I was out of town on business and had a woman “fishsit” for Jack (my latest). She decided she needed one. Well, this snowballed. We now have 8 people with fish on their desks and no two tanks (bowls) are alike. They range from tanks made to look like an office, to retro living rooms, to outer space with rockets.
And so it begins. Again. I mean, again, again.
After 602 Ways to Have Fun at Work, you would think that original ideas would have dried up. But 10 years after the release of "301 Ways to Have Fun at Work," I am still receiving thoughts and ideas from people world-wide. This blog will be a forum for those ideas. I will begin by including some fun activities that have been passed on to me, and it is my hope that we will begin to see new submissions that can be added weekly.
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