Prime Controls Inc.’s Post

Back when I led the Traditions Team at Walt Disney World, one of my responsibilities was to direct the “goodbye” process when the facilitation year was completed. Folks got to facilitate for one year and during that year we authentically and unashamedly leaned into the idea that we were a family. But as the year came to an end, those family feelings could lead to some cognitive dissonance. “We’re a family but you’re kicking us out.” Everyone understood that moving on allowed for another group to take advantage of the development opportunity that they had experienced, but it didn’t make saying goodbye easier. That’s when for the first time I tried to put into words what I believed: that moving on isn’t always the end. It’s just the next natural step. It’s growth. And for the first time I shared with a group of exceptional professionals what I told myself when my facilitation year came to an end in 2000. “Just because you move out of the house, doesn’t mean you’re no longer part of the family.” There are workplaces where “We’re a family here!” is used inauthentically and manipulatively to wring additional discretionary effort and unearned loyalty out of an under-compensated workforce. But there are places where it’s real. And as leaders, creating an atmosphere where people truly gain a sense of family from their work environment can be one of our most fulfilling accomplishments. And the impact can remain long after the work is done. I look forward to staying connected and taking the gifts that my most recent work family gave me over the last two years to my next professional home. And I hope we stay connected. Because I may have moved out of the house, but we’re still a family.

Don't sweat the small stuff 🤔 For me the small things are where it's at 🙌 Because often the small things are big things to others. 💙 A quick check in on how someone is doing! 💚 A small gift when someone starts 🧡 An acknowledgement of work well done ... the list goes on! Over the last few months I've been working on tweaking our processes to ensure our culture is FAB-ulous. One of the actions has been the implementation of 'High Fives' as a channel for each team (on Teams 😂 ) It's been lovely watching people acknowledge each others work 😍 Yesterday one of our lovely managers took the time to give one to me. Took me by surprise as that was never the intention but it brought a huge smile to my face. Never underestimate the power of taking the time to show interest and care towards others. ❤️ Team members who feel valued will bring more value to a company and for us the importance in this is more value to the kids we serve! Do you have a process for giving high fives to your team ❓ #highfive #teamwork #smallthingsmatter #culture

So, you want to be the "cool boss," huh? Well, it's not as easy as bringing in a ping pong table—although for me, that would absolutely work wink wink nudge nudge. Rewarding your team's hard work takes some real brainpower. Just like every guest wants a personalized experience, your team craves that special touch too. If we all celebrate in the same way, it's like handing out identical birthday cards—nice, but lacking that personal touch, right? Dare to ask how your team likes to be appreciated. What makes them feel valued and part of the crew? Being a good leader means venturing into uncharted territory (cue dramatic music). It means no excuses about being too busy or claiming it's not in the budget. Whether they've been here for two weeks or two decades, everyone deserves a pat on the back and to feel acknowledged. So, unleash your creativity when it comes to rewards!

🌟 **My little BIG Moment** 🌟 Today, I'm moved to share an experience that was my little BIG moment. As a manager, I've been part of many teams, but the depth of connection within my team at HomeRiver Group is something truly special. Initially, I observed from a slight distance as my team—comprising Senior Managers, supported by Property Managers—shared heartfelt "I love yous" at the end of our meetings. This display of affection, so rare in professional settings, always struck me as beautiful. Despite our mostly remote interactions, these moments of warmth shone brightly, though I often thought they were reserved for those with deeper, longer-standing connections than mine. Today transformed my perspective. 👏🏼 As I walked back in from a meeting, my coworker packed up her things to scurry to the next to do… and I was no longer a bystander but a participant in one of those heartfelt farewells—complete with a hug and an inclusive "love you guys" that moment warmly welcomed me into the fold. It got even better when I discovered she'd left this sticky note for me; she thought she'd miss saying goodbye. This gesture filled my heart to the brim. Am I truly part of them? My little BIG moment. My team’s culture… It's a culture that transcends work; it's about caring for each other on a deeper level, fostering a sense of family that I believe enhances our collective performance and well-being. I am profoundly grateful to lead and be part of this team. It has taught me the invaluable power of building genuine connections and how such bonds transform our work environment into something like to family. A heartfelt thank you to my team for embracing me and each other throughout this journey. Your spirit of camaraderie and support has redefined my understanding of teamwork and leadership. Here's to more heartwarming moments and continued commitment to excellence. 🌈 #TeamCulture #LeadershipMoments #GenuineConnections #RemoteWork #LeadershipGratitude #TeamLove #InclusiveLeadership #WorkplaceWellbeing #GratefulLeader #HeartfeltLeadership

Take every opportunity to celebrate life’s wins. A "well done", "great job" or "you smashed it" costs nothing but means a lot. I was delighted to hear that my niece passed her driving test the other week, and it got me thinking about recognition. Goals might be individual to us, whether they’re inside or outside of work. But when you support others in helping them achieve or celebrate these moments, you become an essential part of their journey. They feel seen and valued. In the workplace, being recognised empowers employees to continue working their magic. It can be a simple thank you or a gift. The main thing is to understand what matters to the person and always be open and willing to celebrate every milestone, however big or small. It’ll not only benefit the individual, but it’ll benefit the business too. As #1 New York Times bestselling author Susan Elizabeth Phillips once said, “Celebrate the success of others. High tide floats all ships.” What are you doing to create or contribute to a culture of recognition? #Recognition #Culture #ThePowerOfThePeople #EmployeeEngagement #HRThoughts

"Be yourself; everyone else is already taken." - Oscar Wilde "Embracing authenticity in the professional realm is not just a personal choice; it's a strategic advantage. 🌟 Being yourself at work fosters genuine connections, fuels creativity, and enhances collaboration. 💼 In a world saturated with conformity, your unique perspective is your power. 🚀 Don't be afraid to showcase your quirks, passions, and individuality – they are the ingredients that set you apart in a sea of sameness. 🌈 Authenticity breeds trust, and trust is the currency of meaningful professional relationships. So, let's break free from the mold, celebrate our differences, and bring our true selves to the table. 🤝 Your authenticity not only enriches your work experience but also inspires those around you. 💪 Let's build a workplace culture that values the individual voices that make our collective symphony truly extraordinary. #Authenticity #BeYourself #ProfessionalJourney" To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

I've been awarded the "Best Team Player" award, but I've also heard "You don't get along with the team." Let me take you through the two different work experiences. In the first company, I was seen as a Top Performer—delivering great results, but I always felt a bit off. I'd go into team meetings feeling nervous, over-prepared, and unsure of myself. Whenever I tried to speak up, I'd get interrupted, and it felt like my voice wasn't heard. When I applied for another role internally, the manager said that he heard from my team that I wasn't a team player, which really surprised me. When I asked one of my colleagues about this what he said took me by shock, "You don't smile at me like X(another teammate of mine) when we get on a Zoom Call" Now, onto the second company—a whole different story. I still rocked at my job, but I also became a better team player (without even trying). I didn't shy away from meetings, always pitched in, and never avoided tough conversations. Took up bigger responsibilities. Plus, I made lifelong friendships that I will always count on. The big difference? Company 2 saw me for me. They created an environment where I felt comfortable being myself. Every day was exciting, and I never felt like I was just punching the clock. I wasn't the only one who felt this way. Every employee there was on the same page, and we all had each other's backs. The team shared a common value. People were not just friends but they revered each other.  ----------------------------------- What did I learn from this? At Company 1, I just went through the motions, focused on hitting targets and cashing my checks. But at Company 2, I was making a difference and creating impact. Companies before you talk about hiring for "culture fit," understand that it's not just about finding people who fit in—it's about creating an environment where everyone can shine. Let's make work a place where everyone feels valued, where being yourself is celebrated, and friendships aren't forced. #culture #workplacetoxicity

We often think of Recognition as a way to motivate a team member but how does it make you feel? Have you ever noticed? The other day a Peer of mine did a great job at a task where we had to work together. As I finished the meeting, I did mention it to her and I went on to tell the others in my team that she had done a great job. I happened to notice that I actually felt great appreciating someone in an open forum. It made me realise that I work with extremely talented individuals from whom I can constantly learn. Recognition is a two way street - It makes the receiver feel good and makes the giver feel great as well! Don't think of recognition and appreciation as a top down approach- something you expect mostly from your manager and focus on getting. Give it freely and meaningfully and see the magic it weaves in your own life! ✨ #Recognition #Postivityattheworkplace

From my very first job out of college as a receptionist at a nonprofit, earning $13 per hour and juggling the challenges of raising a child, to the roles that followed my career journey has been a testament to growth, resilience, and the unwavering belief in the dignity of every position. Starting at a place where I struggled to make ends meet, I learned not just what a nonprofit does but the intrinsic value of every task I was assigned. Whether it was cleaning the fridge, kitchen, or conference rooms after meetings, I poured excellence into every job, making it a point to leave things better than I found them. This wasn't just a job but my contribution to a cause, my mark of pride. My subsequent positions, though varied, often included similar responsibilities, and I embraced them wholeheartedly. If my task was to clean a fridge, it would be the cleanest fridge anyone had seen. This attitude wasn't about the tasks themselves but about the pride and dedication I brought to every aspect of my work. It's a mindset I've carried with me, now more than ever, in a leadership role. I've witnessed firsthand how "lower-level" employees (a term I use cautiously because, truly, every role is pivotal) bring immense value and pride to their work. That's why I advocate for treating every level of employee with fairness, politeness, and kindness. As a leader, my goal is to oversee, uplift, motivate, and inspire every team member to see beyond their current roles. The starting point doesn't have to be the endpoint. Let's remember, the value of a team is not just in its leaders but in every single person who contributes, often behind the scenes, to make everything work. It's time we recognize, appreciate, and elevate each other, no matter where we are in the organizational hierarchy. Because, at the end of the day, it's about moving forward together, growing together, and building a culture of respect and equality. Picture of my team and me 😊

I missed this little man yesterday! However, I was in #Manchester with the Intuitive Talent Solutions team having a lovely day of team development 👏 My take away from the day is: It's OK to sometimes go back a step, whether this be at work or in your personal life. It's normal, and you can come back stronger! It's how you react to things that is most important. As Nina Lockwood quite rightly said "you win some, you learn some." I wonder what Percy is thinking as he stares at the fields full of pigeons? 🐦🤔 #teamwork #mindset #executivesearch