Secret of Success - Power of a Minute

This Inspiring story narrated here is from Sherman Roger’s old book, FOREMAN: Leaders or Drivers? This story shows out how important the effective relationships are.

Also this story goes to show how effective managers know the importance of taking a moment to point out what a worker is doing well. But what a difference a minute of affirmation can make in any relationship!

When Rogers was in his college, he had a chance to spend one of his summers in Idaho logging camp. Roger had to take charge of the position of superintendent, when the superintendent had to take a few days off.

Rogers was very well aware that managing the logging camp would be tough. There were different kind of people and especially one by name Tony, an immigrant, was tough to handle. The reason was that he always used to growl and grumble all day.

So when he took up charge, he asked the superintendent what he should do if he had any problems with Tony.

"Fire them," the superintendent said. Then, as if reading Rogers' mind, he added, "I suppose you think you are going to fire Tony if you get the chance. I'd feel badly about that. I have been logging for 40 years. Tony is the most reliable worker I've ever had. I know he is a grouch and that he hates everybody and everything. But he comes in first and leaves last. There has not been an accident for eight years on the hill where he works."

Next day when Rogers took over, he met Tony and had a chat with him.
Rogers: “Tony, do you know I'm in charge here today?"
Tony grunted.
Rogers: "I was going to fire you the first time we tangled, but I want you to know I'm not," and also added that the superintendent had told him.

When he finished, Tony dropped the shovel ful of sand he had held and tears streamed down his face. "Why hadn’t he told me about it eight years ago?"

Tony worked started working harder than ever before.

Rogers went back to school after that summer. Twelve years later he met Tony again. He was superintendent for railroad construction for one of the largest logging companies in the West. Rogers asked him how he came to California and happened to have such success.

Tony replied, "If it not be for the one minute you talk to me back in Idaho, I kill some body someday. One minute, changed my whole life."

All it takes is just One minute. Have you got one minute to thank someone? Have you got a minute to tell someone what you sincerely like or appreciate about that person? A minute to elaborate on some thing he/she did well? One minute. It can make a difference for a lifetime.

Source : artelino.com