Page 169 - Perfect Phrases for Motivating and Rewarding

choose an appropriate level of celebration. Be sure to treat all
similar events the same.
■ While acknowledging occasions makes people feel good and
gives everyone a chance to celebrate, it’s important not to
burden people with gift-giving obligations, especially in a
large department.

Motivational Phrases

■ “Remember our policy of birthdays off. Put in for the day early
and ensure someone covers for you.”
■ “With our flexible scheduling, it’s hard to pull a group together
for occasions. I’d like to take you out for a birthday lunch.”
■ “Go home a little early today and enjoy the rest of your
birthday.”
■ “Let’s take an afternoon break to celebrate Kim’s engagement.”
■ “We all signed a card for Kyle’s birthday. Let’s be sure to do the
same for Larry’s next week.”
■ Post “Happy Birthday to !”at the end of an
e-mail update, on a calendar, or on a bulletin board.
■ “You mentioned you’re sensitive about your birthday. We
love to celebrate birthdays, but we don’t want to make
anyone uncomfortable. Are you okay with your birthday
(being announced, being celebrated over
lunch, being celebrated on an afternoon break . . .)?”
■ “Congratulations on the adoption! I know how long you’ve
been waiting. Several of us would like to celebrate with you
over lunch.”
■ “I appreciate all the late nights you’ve put in lately. Enclosed
is a gift certificate to the Brick Oven for you and your wife to
make up for one of those dinners you missed at home. Enjoy!”
■ “I found this beautiful handcrafted box on my vacation. I hope
you like it. I was able to totally relax knowing you had things
under control. Thank you.”

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