Forever Recognize Others' Greatness: Solution-Focused Strategies for Satisfied Staff, High-Performing Teams, and Healthy Bottom Lines

by Sarah McVanel, Brenda Zalter-Minden

According to countless engagement surveys and polls, the majority of employees today want to feel more valued and to contribute in more meaningful ways.

The results of disengagement are Top talent is considering or acting on their exit plan. Employees who remain are blocked from giving their talents, passions, and virtues to their workplace. Organizations are failing to satisfy their customers and are missing opportunities to innovate and keep their business viable.

It doesn't have to be this way. In this book, based on their new recognition approach, FROG™ - Forever Recognize Others' Greatness - Sarah McVanel and Brenda Zalter-Minden show what happens when leaders and employees pay close attention to the essential greatness within themselves and one

- Employees, no matter what their skill set and across every industry, are motivated to leverage their skills and passion
- Teams flourish
- Top talent is retained
- And the mission of the organization is achieved

Using numerous examples of success from their consulting work, the authors call for a revolutionary approach to recognition

- Is solution-focused, affirming what is already working for each and every person rather than emphasizing failures and problems
- Imagines best possible scenarios for individuals, teams, and organizations
- Sets a strengths-based plan for individuals, with clear next steps
- Becomes a continuous process in which everyone contributes to the humanity of their workplace one positive intent at a time

194 pages, Paperback

Published December 15, 2015

About the author

Sarah McVanel helps individuals leverage the exponential power of recognition to retain top talent, fuel healthy teams and sustain healthy bottom lines. She speaks nationally on the topic, leads workshops, coaches leaders, and conducts organizational recognition program reviews. Sarah specializes in working with service-based organizations and “helping professionals.”

Sarah is a Certified Speaker Professional (CSP), Certified Senior Organizational Development Professional (CSODP), Professional Certified Coach (PCC), Certified Human Resources Leader (CHRL), and president of the Toronto Chapter of the Canadian Association of Professional Speakers (CAPS). She has a BA in Psychology, MSc in Family Relations, and Diplomas in Human Resources and Healthcare Administration.

Sarah has over 18 years’ experience including at a senior leadership level and now owns boutique firm Greatness Magnified. She is an author of peer-reviewed journals, articles and four books.

Reviews

[Stephanie Staples · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is so much relevant information in this book; but don't leave the information there - bring the actionable questions, insights and models to your team meetings for real success.

[Arno ILIC · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a must-read book for any team leader or an aspiring one. Recognizing employees is one of the keys to greater performance. We used to think that we made them better by improving their weaknesses. The reality is, we should encourage their strengths and evaluate their weaknesses to see if we have placed them in the proper role. Too often, managers set up employees to fail. Greatness takes a different approach. It is about recognition, a how-to book to bring out the best in people. Every team leader should have this book as a point of reference. I am buying several to pass on to clients. Sarah and Brenda make a great team. If you need help, they will gladly assist you in setting up a program.

[Cate Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

With the great resignation at an all time high, Sarah’s book is timely. Solution focused strategies that you can apply immediately at your next team meeting, staff development day or general meeting that stick. Sarah’s soul purpose in her work and life is to acknowledge and pay witness to each person by highlighting the best of who they are. Who doesn’t need tools to add to their team engagement tool kit.
This is a must read.

[Frank Zaccari · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sarah McVanel's book is particularly relevent as we go through the "Great Resignation" period in the COVID world. One positive result of COVID is people are more aware of their value and many are no longer satisfied with the old workplace 9-5 model. To attract and retain the best, leaders are must change, but how - read Sarah's book.

[John McMillian · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a business teacher and this is only of the optional reading business books. I encourage students who are not naturally “personable” so they realize how important recognition is as a skill set. Lots of good business case evidence and practical how tos.

[Neil Cosby · Rating 5 out of 5]

From rewarding the big notable achievements to the day to day successes, Sarah shows that communication of employee recognition is vital to retaining, motivating, inspiring and empowering a workforce ! A shoujd be read fir all leaders !

[Kathryn Orford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Right now with so many of the workforce working remotely and feeling disconnected this book is a must read!
Kathryn Orford
Author, Human Performance Expert, Speaker and Coach

[Laurie Flasko]

This is a go to book. Many great exercises to use with teams that are grounded in wisdom and experience by both authors. I really like to use it when accompanied with the workbook.

[Melissa Hartley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Too many people are relying on old methods and POV for how to keep people engaged. Sarah outlines the strengths based approach that is sustainable and the way we need to go!

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspiring. Simple thanks have big impacts. Good reminder and ideas.