Have you ever ventured to the mailroom and requested a package be sent but it was past or getting close to deadline for drop-off to send special packages for the day? Did you ask a co-worker to help you on a project and got the feeling that they really didn’t want to help you? Getting others to perform tasks can be a challenge, especially when deadline are approaching. Below are some ways that will help you in making requests of others in or outside of your department.
1. Acknowledge People/Departments
Public acknowledgement is a great way to recognize your co-workers. For example, during staff meetings, acknowledge the work that other departments have done. In companies that have a mailroom and duplication/support services department, I find that these departments are the most neglected when it comes to recognition. Everyone within a company is a valuable asset, so let them know that they are appreciated.
2. Express Gratitude.
Ever had a meeting and there were refreshments left over? Why not call members from other departments and ask them to partake in some of the snacks. If you don’t have meetings with leftovers, a simple “thank you” is always welcome. This is a kind gesture that lets people know how you value their service and saves food from getting thrown away.
3. Ask for input/suggestions
If possible, before making a request ask for some input on how the project or task can be completed more efficiently. This shows that you are interested and open to suggestions.
4. Don’t let every request be an emergency.
This requires some planning and organization on your part, but even the most organized individual has emergencies. If it is a situation that requires urgent attention, be assertive and ask for help and apologize for any inconvenience.
Showing gratitude and appreciation is another workplace positive reinforcement method that can cause for productivity to increase as well as moral. Remember the old saying, “Treat others how you would want to be treated.”
4 comments:
One thing I have found that goes a long way are personal handwritten thank you notes and Starbucks gift cards. I recently had to ask for a huge favor in getting a hotel room for my boss during an annual meeting. I completely forgot to book his room - I know, total F-up. Well, I called the woman who handles all the hotel reservations for an organization he belongs to. It took her a few weeks, but she worked her magic and got him booked! I sent her a personal note and a gift card to say thank you. She totally saved my skin.
Hi LaShaune,
That was a wonderful gesture and believe me she will remember. I hope you got her name, just in case you are ever in a situation like that again, you will be able to call on her. I would try not to make it often though. Thanks for commenting.
Oh definitely. I deal with this woman almost monthly for organizational travel. Forgetting hotel arrangements, especially for these large annual meetings, isn't an everyday occurrence for me. I tend to book for these events the moment the announcement comes out. So she did come in as a lifesaver.
The best remedy I have found that helps me remember items for conferences and meetings is an "events checklist." I use MS 2007 OneNote a lot now and I have converted all of my checklists into this program. It really helps, so that no stone is left unturned.
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