Reward the disruptors: those who ask questions. Week 13 of the 52-Week Employee Engagment Plan

I announced in May, 2010, the 52 - Week Employee Recognition Plan. This is the 13th week of that plan. The lesson this week is:

Reward the disruptors: those who ask questions

Yes. Reward them. Reward those who risk disapproval, ridicule, rejection, snickers, anger, failure when they ask questions.

Reminder: Money is the least important reward. Recognition is the most important.

Recognize them for their courage.

Recognize them for their interest.

Recognize their question for helping you understand the need to be clearer.

Recognize their question for helping everyone avoid future problems.

Recognize their question for its role:

• in challenging assumptions

• creating greater connection to your goals with your audience.

• creating a culture of learning. (Thanks Gary Harpst.)

And mainly recognize their questions because it shows they care. That’s the key in creating a sustainable business.

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You can start with any week of the 52-Week Employee Recognition Plan and make that your first week.

You can take one of those weeks and turn it into a month or commit to an accelerated pace and complete 6 of the weeks in one month.

You can create your own week of employee recognition. Share that journey here. Share it in your blog or Twitter or Facebook.

But, do something to recognize your employees! They set your brand apart as your ultimate competitive edge. And the more you recognize their achievements, the more achievements you'll see and they'll enjoy, along with your customers and and shareholders, partners and vendors.