Your husband called...he said you can buy anything you want!

I spent today in a session called "Laugh-O-Nomics." As the name would apply, this was a great, fun session. The workshop focused on using humor and fun in the workplace to increase productivity. There are small gestures that can be used to create a lightened atmosphere in the workplace. The heading of this blog, "Your husband called...he said you can buy anything you want," is a sign that hangs in one of markets of a participant in today's workshop. When people walk in, they automatically feel light-hearted feeling that we want to produce in our markets. Small things can really boost attitude in the workplace. Some ideas were hanging up bulletin boards where employees can post jokes, cartoons, etc., place a funny picture on the wall and have each employee add a caption, or simply challenge employees to small contest. Happy employees often transfer into happy customers. Customer Satisfaction is Key!

I cannot write this blog without sharing the activity we did today. We were broke into groups of five and each person in the group was given two balloons. Each group was then given a box of Cracker Jacks, and we had to find the prize. After finding the prize, you decide what letter it starts with. For example, if my box has a crab, I have to use the letter "C." We then had to create something using the balloons that started with the letter "C." My group tied with another group for the win! We created a Cranky Crown of Correction. We decided that if an employee had a bad attitude, they would have to wear the crown! Trust me, you can't put this thing on your head without immediately feeling uplifted! Be creative in your own businesses. Do you hire teenagers for summer employment? Do they think everything is "lame." Ask them for advice, value their opinion, and make them feel a part of the team. Have rituals that use to change negative behaviors and reinforce positive behaviors. Create an atmosphere where fun is not just allowed, it is encouraged!

This is our last night here in Baltimore, and although it has been a fun, educational experience, I can't wait to return to the beautiful mountains of West Virginia. For the last time, good night from Baltimore!