The “Morale” of the Story

MORALE IS OFTEN spelled “moral” and though they’re closely related that way, they’re nearly as different as “desert” and “dessert.”

We really value our Brain Squad monthly survey group for they provide so much content and insights into their signshops. Our June survey asked about the members’ company morale. Nearly ¾ reported experiencing “the level of positive morale that management wants.” For the 26% responding their shops falling short of that, another question sought “the one best way your sign company could improve the morale of its employees.”

Take a wild guess: more money, right? Actually, no. A raise in pay came in fourth out of six options. What was first? “Recognize accomplishments, communicate” at 42%. Opportunities for advancement/a four-day workweek (22%) and more or better perks at work (17%) all out-polled a raise in pay (15%).

So, what’s the moral of the morale story? Money talks but there can be more important things when it comes to keeping good employees around. Simple and regular thanks or praise for jobs well done — both publicly and privately — really juice people up.

“Employee of the Month” has become something of a cliché, a punchline, an “honor” someone might associate with the 2006 movie starring Dane Cook, Dax Shepard and Jessica Simpson. Create a new honorific … but if you haven’t already, you might try it. A number of companies hold annual awards for employees. Something on the order of “The Dundies” from The Office — just not quite as sarcastic.

Your personal involvement will make a positive difference to morale — including your own.

Join your fellow sign pros in the Brain Squad at signsofthetimes.com/brainsquad.