The Workplace - TAPP Blog

Working from Home vs. in an Office

Posted by Sharon Gates on Monday, 07 May 2012 in The Workplace

As more and more companies are reducing office space, it is important to take the time to think about what you would do if you were offered a job working from home.

Some people might quickly say, “I want to work from home!” The idea of having more flexibility and coming and going as you please may sway that decision. However, be careful to think about the long term: Does it make sense for you and the success of your career?

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Is your office fantasy league a boon or a detriment?

Posted by Sharon Dow on Wednesday, 04 April 2012 in The Workplace

In some office cultures you find co-workers participating in group social activities, like fantasy sports leagues, book clubs, and health & fitness programs. Some of these activities are sanctioned by employers and some are arranged by individuals.

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Retention, Recognition and Dance Moms

Posted by Linda Guild on Wednesday, 07 March 2012 in The Workplace

Retention, recognition and Dance Moms...huh? I know it doesn't seem like they go together but bear with me for a moment. For those of you who have no idea what Dance Moms is, it is a reality TV show which focuses on the moms of 6 young dancers ages 6-14 who participate weekly in dance competition. Like all reality shows there is plenty of drama. On a recent episode one of the dancers was recognized as the top dancer for the week. This was a first for her and all the other dancers cheered and ran to hug her. It made me think of how co-workers can be part of the recognition process. When we think of recognition and retention, it is often in connection with a boss to the employees. But I think that the support throughout a team is crucial. It provides a different effect when it comes from a co-worker instead of a boss.

So what are effective and creative ways to provide recognition? And do they help with retention? Money is one way and for many is the primary way to show recognition but it is not throughout the year. Here are some ideas:

1) Have each staff member say what they appreciate about another staff member during a staff meeting - like that the person handled a situation well; jumped in to help with a project etc.

2) Have an award which can be passed amongst the staff when a person is "caught" doing something right.

3) Randomly give out a gift card or cash for a good idea or initiative.

4) When a customer gives positive feedback about a staff member, share it publicly.

5) Say thank you ... don't take anything/anyone for granted!

What do you do in your office for recognition? Have you implemented any creative perks? Does everyone participate?

A Resignation... Now What

Posted by Linda Guild on Saturday, 11 February 2012 in The Workplace

If you have managed people for any length of time, then you have had a resignation. There are times when this might b e a good thing. You and the employee both know at some level that the relationship isn’t working for either and this is the right next step. Hopefully this is the exception, not the rule. Too often the resignation is from a reliable, high performing individual and comes at a busy time for the company.

If you run a small business like I do, then it is tough to be without an employee for long. The temptation is to post a position and spread the word that you need a person who can do the same tasks as the person who left. But is that the best course of action? Are your services and customers the same? Are you using exactly the same technology? What current employees are ready for a new challenge?

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Things That Make You Go "Grrrrrr": What Not to Do at the Office - Part II

Posted by Sharon Dow on Wednesday, 08 February 2012 in The Workplace

I have a few more suggestions for keeping the peace at work...

That’s just plain annoying!

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