Sometimes I wonder where my million dollar idea is? So far I learned that you can teach people about leadership with whales (Whale Done) , fish (Pikes Place market) , and pickles (The Leadership Pickles) . If you have not heard, the latest animal, vegetable or mineral to make its way to the leadership arena is the CARROT.

The Carrot Principle, 2nd Edition, is a book all about recognition. Its main premise is as follows...

"The Carrot Principle shows definitively that the central characteristic of the most successful managers is that they provide their employees with frequent and effective recognition—a practice that unquestionably taps into our own human nature. Recognition inspires results in every age group, career level, and culture"

Not to come across as too cynical, but do we need a whole book to tell us this? Studies and research have shown for years that the number one way to motivate employees is to say "Thank you" Simple, cost-effective recognition pieces have a tremendous and lasting effect on the engagement of your employees.

So how are you doing? Are you taking time to recognize your employees? What are some things that you do to make them feel special. Simple ideas include...

• sticky notes on their desks on Monday mornings telling them to have a good week
• a hand-written thank you note for a job well done
• assigning them to the new piece of equipment (police car, computer, etc)
• an extra 15 minute break or lunch
• making time to ask them what their goals are

Just like we all learned as kids, it's the thought that counts. Your employees will be happy you thought of them, and they are not going to downplay any effort you make.

If you have any great ideas for low-cost recognition, be sure to share them here. 

And remember, to truly motivate your employees, be sure to give em'the Pickle Oops...I mean Carrot.

I'll see you out there...

Pete