24 Carrot Manager

I am half way reading this book and it already reminded me of the methods and gestures I almost forgot to practise. Before joining my current employment, I was a different type of manager. I was more concern towards my staff and rewarding them for all the achievements. I would always say thank-you for a job well done but won't hesitate to comment them for improvement if work were sloppy. Whenever I noticed my staff feeling demotivated, I will have a chat with them as a friend. To me everyone is on the same level. I believe this would break the communications barrier between manager and bottom line staff. It would also improve their productivity and loyalty if they feel important and appreciated. I would want to keep my good people but I won't keep those with the wrong mindset long. Whenever someone has family problem and personal problem, he will gets times off from achieving the 'standard' for a few days. This way, it won't hurt their career and they can concentrate to resolve their problem faster.

When I was reading this book last night, I realised that I haven't been as involved as I was previously. I think the main part of the reasons is that majority of the staff are already demotivated beyond help. Most of them also not qualify and with the wrong mindset for the job. I still believe I can change them but it will take 2-3years. Unlike my previous employment where I can change someone attitude and mindset in 2-3 months.

When I started working in my current company, I finally understand why my country has a third world mentality and is still a developing country after so many many years. There are just so many negative points in them. Work the least but want the best benefits and salary. Reluctant to change and don't want to take ownership. Never understand sense of urgency and go home sharp on the dot! Most of them are not academically qualified and even though company provide them the fund for advance their studies and executive courses, 99.99% never take it. Even the yearly fund for workshop and training wasn't used. They just not interested to take it unless one make it compulsary. I keep telling myself can't blame them, they only have high school certificate. Never goes to college or university. With all those fund and budget for workshop, it like haven to me because very very few companies nowadays will have such benefits.