Having grown up in 4-H, with its motto “to make the best better”, I am a firm believer in “best use” practices. Everyone wants to feel like their talents are being tapped and utilized in ways that are meaningful – think “best use.” Many people also want their best work to be challenging and fulfilling.
People at every level in the organization want their skills to be put to good use. When under-challenged, people get bored and then often leave. Respected, well-challenged people engage more fully, work more diligently, and stay with their organizations longer. Are you as a leader putting people to their best use? What needs to change?
Objects also have best use standards. From boxes, storage systems, and tools, to software, hardware, and machinery, explore whether best uses for each are happening. Here are some objects I’ve seen used in not-best-use ways.
- A chair is not a ladder.
- A desk is not a ladder.
- A flashlight is not a hammer.
- A pallet is not a bridge for crossing raw sewage.
- A knife is not a pair of scissors.
What have you seen in action in not-best-use ways? If danger is afoot, take action to get the right tools and equipment in place for best use and for safety.
Chefs work with ingredients to best combine them to create delicious, mouth-watering meals. Best quality ingredients are also pursued whether locally, regionally, or internationally sourced. Diners want best quality too. Many locales have annual Best Restaurants and shops as voted by the community.
Artists in all mediums work with tools, materials, colors, textures to create best-possible designs. While we might choose a different pattern or color, each art-form has a best-way to accomplish tasks, to form structures, to capture ideas, and to create or record sounds.
Look around. Discover what is in best use. Identify who is being best-tasked. Explore your home, work, and community spaces for best use objects, tools, machines, and human service providers!
- What can you put to better use in your organization?
- Whom can be better tasked because they have the best skills and knowledge for the job at hand?
- Whom can you recognize, and thank, for the good work they are doing? “Thank You” goes a long way!
Ready to explore whether employees are in their best-use zone?
Let’s visit. Jana Kemp 208-367-1701
As the author of seven books, three of which are on use of time and decision-making, Jana has been interviewed by U.S., Canadian, and European programs, and magazines.
Workplace – the Blog: Managing the moments of our day-to-day business lives takes work. Together, let’s explore what issues and activities affect us every day (or some days) that we go to work. Together we can find working solutions.