Best Mom's Day Present Ever!

This is what I am talkin' about- a genuine and simple Mom's Day idea and best recycling of a Coke bottle yet- My Mother's Day present from my son! As I wiped the tears of joy from my eyes, and answered his question with a teary, "Thank you.Yes, you may have ice-cream for breakfast, my dear." See what a little genuine appreciation does!

Mother's Day and Corporate Giving- Surprising Similarities

                                              Photo courtesy of Ludwig Interior Design

Happy Mother's Day.
Funny thing about Mother's Day. Why do some people panic, not knowing what to get, while others know exactly how to show their appreciation?
I liken the dilemma to corporate recognition. Some companies know what recognition inspires and shows appreciation while others have no idea their choices are leaving people confused and disappointed.
One of the most important things one can do for Mom and for employees and customers is ensure your message is genuine.
How?
Handwrite a note of thanks - doesn't have to be with a quill and ink, just add a few more lines than your name.
There are numerous websites that have quotes for Moms - better yet, choose an author you know your Mom enjoys.
For your employees - be specific in your thanks so they know why you are thanking them. This reinforces a specific task or performance they'll want to repeat.
Again if the creative juices aren't flowing, visit a 'quotation' website for a suitable phrase.
For customers - a handwritten note thanking them for their business goes a long way.
So send your appreciation the good 'ol fashion way- with pen and paper!

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.

International Women's Day

photo created by Melanie Cook, from valariebudayr.typepad.com

International Women's Day was Monday, March 8.

To all the women in my life, from the first woman who said that I could be whatever I dreamed and taught me how to whistle-my mom, to my sisters, sister-in-laws, mom-in-law, aunts, cousins, past and present teachers, clients, artists, friends, and, last but not least, Jen- my right hand gal at Janet Helm, thank you.

Happy International Women's day to you all!
Love, Janet

To see international events happening around the world, check out link:
http://www.internationalwomensday.com/

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Proudly Canadian

Photo credit: miss604 on Flickr

After attending the FWE luncheon (read about inspiring event here), I took some time to enjoy the sites and sounds of the Olympic buzz, as I was smack dab in the middle of it all! I walked with the crowds to the flames of Olympic Cauldron a few short blocks away. Yes, the fence was up, but still impressive indeed.

I describe the vibe as "snow falling on a cool, crisp Christmas morning and neighbors coming out to say hello, chat about the weather, their day with family and friends" - everyone is in such a grand mood. I beamed with Canadian pride, smiled and thanked a volunteer as we walked towards the cauldron together, gave a visiting mom whose child was having a meltdown a reassuring "been there done that" look, and was reminded how we are really alike and how this event is truly sensational for all.

I was reminded of how the power of smiles and happiness is contagious and an easy gift to give and receive. I then walked to Canada Pavilion, the meeting spot where my husband and our sons would be, to enjoy a few more sights together.

At the end of the day, a hot chocolate break at the Four Seasons Hotel and sharing laughs with visitors was a perfect end to a great day.

We plan to continue the appreciation celebration downtown later this week again.
Janet

Welcoming the Olympic Torch!

photograph from series of Torch Relay photographs
by unknown photographers, a j a n i photography

Donning my BC tartan scarf, with our sons wearing their "red mittens," my husband and I cheered the Olympic flame and gave a great welcome to the Olympic torch as it made its way through our community. I became surprisingly emotional as I lifted our 6-year-old up and pointed down the street. "Here it comes," I yelled. The community came out wearing red and white celebrating the torch relay with great enthusiasm and pride.

I find myself more proud of my city, my Country than expected. I am proud to see downtown Vancouver looking so ready to welcome the world. What overwhelms me most is seeing the volunteers- thousands of them in their teal blue coats, the people volunteering their time to be a part of it all. Truly Canadian indeed.

Go Canada Go!

Clear Vision for 2010

The Olympics are a few short weeks away when the world comes to my hometown, Vancouver!

At Janet Helm we are thrilled to be working with talented artisans who call Vancouver home, customizing and collaborating on gifting for local and international clients looking to recognize with the Canadian spirit.

One such person we are working with on executive gift commissions is First Nation artist Corrine Hunt, who is also the co-designer of the Olympic Medals and a participant in the Coca-Cola Aboriginal Art Bottle Program. We are excited to be promoting the sunglasses and readers adorned with with her Pacific North West designs.

Click here to read the symbolism and see how they complement your corporate culture and vision.

To see the Olympic medals and read the story visit the Vancouver 2010 site.

To clear vision for 2010!

Janet