DRAFT A PLAN TO STRENGTHEN FROM WITHIN

Throughout the year businesses evaluate operational performance, plan marketing strategies and set goals. One very important business issue that often ends up as a low priority is the consistent follow-through of an employee motivation program. Most companies realize the importance of employee recognition and motivation but often lack the time and creative means to successfully pursue this key function of business performance.

A successful company garners its strength from the internal customer – the employee. Millions of dollars are spent on marketing to potential external customers in order to gain increased sales. This is a critical part of all businesses. Those companies that do not believe or support the importance of the internal customer, but show positive sales, are often only a shell. On the outside, they appear successful; on the inside, they “lose” some of their profit due to the cost of management problems, legal issues and employee unrest and conflict. They have no strength within the company and eventually the shell cracks.

Build strength within your company by committing to an internal promotion plan. Internal promotions are those activities or matters involving employees that ultimately benefit the strength of the company. Internal promotions are established to enhance communication, increase quality and customer service, build morale, establish team spirit and support company philosophy. Employees who are recognized as important assets in the company will be motivated to do their best work. In turn, your customers will receive the direct benefit of confident employees providing quality service.

The goals of internal promotion are similar to the goals of external marketing, only directed to a different audience. New product education (training), goodwill, image enhancement, increased sales and growth are goals that can be expected from both external marketing and internal promotions.

Internal promotion programs can involve many different forms of activities. Consider including in your internal promotions plan activities such as birthday recognition, Employee of the Month, performance recognition and incentive plans related to sales, attendance, production or safety issues. Creativity is the basis of the most rewarding activities due to the importance of developing plans that positively re-enforce the company philosophy and management environment. Creative internal promotion activities can help retain the value of training and communications.

Your internal promotions can also be developed around different themes. Themes can range from humorous to serious, business oriented to family. To get you started, consider some of the fun and creative event dates listed in Chase’s Calendar of Events, Contemporary Books, Inc. such as:

August 22	Be an Angel Day
September 11	Boss/Employee Exchange Day
October 9-13	National Customer Service Week
October	National Clear Your Files Month
November 15	American Enterprise Day

Once you determine a theme, plan a creative activity that supports the message and atmosphere of your company.

Truly successful companies realize the important part that each individual employee plays in the growth and stability of the company. Those companies build on strength from within by providing a clear message of support through internal promotion programs for their employees.

Cathy Landry
Business Spirit Inc.
www.businessspirit.com