Dianna, a production line supervisor for a dental equipment manufacturer, told Session 7B of the Leadership Development LAB (LDL):

“After session 3 of the LDL, I decided to utilize my time during Flex-N-Stretch for a brainstorming session. In addition to our crew, I invited the final assemblers and mounts builders. I also invited all of the folks from the packaging department to our Flex-N-Stretch brainstorming session. It is a little unprecedented to do anything this structured with outside guest as a part of Flex-N-Stretch. A lot of great ideas came flying at me from everywhere. With each idea, a solution or answer came about. I watched as the toughest brainstorming guideline was honored. No ones ideas were put down, laughed at, or diminished. No one was made to feel dumb by anyone else as the ideas kept flying. We were learning to stretch and flex our brains at the same time we were stretching and flexing our bodies. Everyone was great. With each idea that directed us toward a solution, my groups’ attitudes improved. The stress of Tyton, our new computer system, had been wearing on

everyone. So the brainstorming session was a welcomed opportunity to get recognized and reenergized.

The lesson I learned from this experience is that getting my groups involved and listening to their ideas shows them that I acknowledge them, that I appreciate them and their ideas. Conducting the brainstorm session showed that I understand that they are the people who I depend on to make everything work.

The action I call you to take is to listen to the people in your area and act on their ideas. Show them that you recognize them, that they count and that they are valued.

The benefit you will gain is a more close-knit, trusting team. Morale will go up and so will productivity.”

If you or anyone you know is a motorcycle enthusiast, they will love the excerpts from Larry’s newest book, Motorcycle Meditations – A Vision Quest to Alaska, which can be found in the June, July and August issues of Twin Magazine. The June issue goes on sale at newsstands May 10th. Pick it up, read it and share it with your friends!