John Santistevan's Page



John, Welcome to the Lean Process Group!

John,

We have tried many different incentive programs. Most were year end programs (cleanest stall, most curtious, will to invest in tools, zero come backs, etc.) Some were seasonal (Turkeys for Thanksgiving, etc). Some were performance based by hours.

I recently heard an out-of-industry report that "family gifts" have the most impact. Tickets to the movies, dinner out, ball games, paid family day off (take the kids to the doctor or school). The report stated that employees are happier when they have had a happy Out-of-Work experience paid for by work. Basically they are appreciated by their families which seams to double the appreciation for the employer. The family also appreciates the employer.

I've taken a need based approach also. For instance, a painter had some family issues but he needed to stay lat to make some hours. I told him to flag the hours and go home. Another employee had to switch cars because his was broke down. His replacement car was a gas gusler and he lives 25 miles away so I gave him a gas card. My secretaries elderly mother 2000 miles away was sick and was going in for surgery. She was crying and wanted to be there but couldn't afford to take off work or travel. Because she help to watch my 9 year old over the summer at the shop while I was out on runs, I bought her a plane ticket and paid her for the week she was gone. It works great for building loyalty but you have to be careful not to pick favorites and keep some things hush hush.

I've found that constistant systematic reward programs for techs become expected and often abused. They will find away to cheat it. The goal should be to get in and out of the shop fast with the best quality. My employees know that is what I want, that's step one. Step two is building the loyalty that makes them go the extra distance without question.

We've ranged from 9 to 20 employees. With a large number of employee you kind of need a systematic approach but he personal is best.

We have 10000 sq feet and 7 techs in the shop, but gee is it quiet here right now. Leaves time for alot of creative thinking.

Is that your shop John? If so it must be a monster. Nice photo.