Chocolates: The Power of a Gesture

Folks often wonder if small things count, and when it comes to retention and making a positive impression, I'm convinced that they do. Here's a personal story to illustrate the power.

I recently attended the retirement party of an engineer who racked up over 30 years of service at a local engineering and manufacturing firm. After the meal and speeches honoring Jim, the retiree, I went over to congratulate him. "I have a story to tell about your husband, Don" he told me. Jokingly, I replied with "Uh Oh, what mischief did he create?" I expected the kind of story I had heard from Don's sisters about how he played practical jokes. Instead, Jim said, "Oh, no mischief, but it's something I'll never forget and has remained with me for all 25 years since it took place."

My curiosity peaked, and he went on to say that Don was the lead project engineer for designing an electronic assembly with a short lead time. Everyone on the project had to work overtime for several weeks, pulling all-nighters like in college, and returning early the next day and on weekends to complete the design and test. Don got everyone's commitment and he worked along side them and moved obstacles out of the way. Jim reflected on the camaraderie and team spirit that Don built, but what Jim remembers to this day is the box of chocolates that Don sent to each engineer's wife with a handwritten thank-you for putting up with that difficult time. His eyes welled with teary remembrance. His wife nodded, saying how much she appreciated the gesture.

There is another interesting side to this story -- I'd heard it before. I'd heard it from Don over the years when he reflected on his accomplishments. It turns out that a gesture like the box of chocolates lasts a very long time.

Betty Myers, President of Kaleidosystems, consults with executives that are frustrated with low productivity. She designs customized seminars and training geared at leadership, team and individual effectiveness. Call her at 410-997-2052, or email her.