Friday, April 9, 2010

What can you learn from an 'Undercover Boss'?

Images of Larry O'Donnell, President and COO of Waste Management.
Photos courtesy of CBS Undercover Boss

Imagine a toilet cleaner with such a love of life at work that he attracts interest from bystanders!

I caught a repeat of Oprah's show last week based around a new reality show called Undercover Boss. I watched with huge interest as she showed clips from the show including the President of Waste Management, as he worked with front line employees cleaning portable toilets and picking up garbage. What the CEOs from the show learned was inspiring and I believe a great idea for any executive to truly connect with and engage employees.

A couple of benefits I instantly saw:
- A ‘fly on the wall’ view of employee engagement. Are employees engaged? Are they clear and act on your decided goals and objectives?
- A genuine connection. Getting to see employees passionate about their job and sharing this with customers and how they are delivering your brand face to face with your customers.
- Is your HR and employee recognition working? Do your employees feel valued, heard?

What is one undercover boss action you can take today to truly see your employees and how they present your company to your customers? Post your ideas in the comments.