AUGUST 31

Got a task that seems overwhelming? Let recognition cut it down to size.

MISSION POSSIBLE

What do 1,600 pounds of chicken wings have to do with recognition? Everything, if you talk to Mary Cadagin.

We first heard of this exceptional leader two years ago, when she spearheaded her organization’s data center move. Her team included 550 employees who had been asked to work their day jobs all week and then spend 13 consecutive weekends (including Friday all-nighters) to move the center— all without the promise of extra pay.

Part of the secret was food. Friday nights were kicked off with themed dinners. Chicken wings were part of the regular midnight snacks. And Saturday morning meant full-on breakfasts of pancakes, eggs and bacon.

But there was more. Mary showed concern for her workers, providing overnight hotel stays for those too tired to drive home. She had a sense of humor, holding Hill Street Blues-type meetings before the weekend kicked into high gear. And she was constantly present during the move, giving thanks and encouragement.

When the project was completed, she convinced the company to hand out bonuses to all employees involved in the relocation—and threw a picnic for them and their families.

That’s the power of a leader who understands the power of recognition.