Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
They work hard and do a good job to receive strokes—both from their peers and their super-
visor. In fact, hunger for strokes probably affects everyone's behavior on the job to some
extent. Employee awards are an example of a stroke which can be very effective. A well
designed employee award program can be a positive motivator by recognizing employees in
front of their peers.
Positive strokes
Positive strokes are any form of recognition that leaves another person feeling good, alive,
and signifi cant. Friendships and close relationships are often built around positive strokes.
People like those who stroke them, who give them attention and care enough to listen.
Positive strokes give real meaning to life for most people, and there are many kinds of
positive strokes.
Positive unconditional strokes
Positive unconditional strokes convey the spoken or implied message, “I like you…
you're OK with me.” There are no conditions to the acceptance. These are thought to
be the most meaningful kind of strokes; they are common among family members and
close friends, but are frequently found in the business world as well. They are refl ected in
all kinds of behavior and conversation. Unconditional strokes may be affectionate or
complimentary:
“Good morning!”
“I like that shirt!”
“I just don't know how we'd get along without you.”
“You really know how to close a sale.”
“Come join me for coffee.”
“Your decision was very well thought-out.”
Note that unconditional strokes enhance people's feelings about themselves. If the
strokes are honest, genuine, and not overdone, they are of great benefi t to a person's
ego. Unconditional strokes cannot really be considered a management tool, since
there cannot be any attempt to manipulate another's behavior with them. These are
given freely, without strings. Yet managers who easily give recognition and show
genuine approval fulfi ll important needs of subordinates, and the result is often positive
motivation.
Positive conditional strokes
Positive conditional strokes are recognitions given to intentionally modify another's behav-
ior. Since it is management's job to motivate and guide the behavior of employees, positive
conditional strokes are widely and appropriately used as a management tool. Conditional
strokes essentially say, “You're OK, if…” Acceptance of the other person is conditional on
some expected behavior.
“If you keep that up, you'll get the bonus we discussed.”
“I'm impressed when you work overtime.”
