MARCH 24

“Mr. Scorpio says productivity is up 2 percent and it’s all because of my motivational techniques, like donuts— and the possibility of more donuts to come!”

—Homer Simpson, cartoon character and philosopher

THE PROMISE OF GOOD THINGS TO COME

To our great relief, Homer Simpson is a unique breed of person. But it A turns out he’s an even more unusual manager.

In our initial visits with corporate leaders across America, we frequently ask how many managers within their corporations actively recognize their workers.

“Maybe 10 to 20 percent,” most CEOs reply.

That means if you are recognizing, you’ve got a strategic advantage over 80 to 90 percent of the managers in your company. Make the most of it. Be different. Be innovative. With recognition. (And, come to think of it, a few strategically placed donuts might not be such a bad idea, either.)