The Wizard of Aaaahs

Everyone loves a countdown. Think New Year’s Eve, the start of old movies, and David Letterman’s Top Ten. The 4s compiles decades of experience in recognizing excellence into Advice 4U.  Ladies and gentlemen…The 4s. Don’t wait until they’re #1 or retiring or voted Prom Queen to recognize a special achievement. Acknowledgement should happen more often and in more interesting ways. Consider giving awards in unusual and awe-inspiring circumstances. 4 guidance, just recall the characters from The Wizard of Oz. The 4s  Advice 4 Alternative Awards

  1. Scarecrow. Biggest Idea. Brains. If someone offers a novel idea, profitable solution, or streamlines your process, it’s only fair to praise them. Consistently rewarding colleagues for big ideas shows that your organization is willing to take suggestions and maneuver quickly to enact the good ones.
  2. Tin Man. Grace Under Pressure. Heart. Our coach once gave this award to our entire softball team for losing—every single game, all season long. We fought the good fight and hung in there with exceptional good sportsmanship. Award-winning behavior deserves accolades!
  3. Lion. Medal of Valor. Courage. Bravery in the face of adversity. Reaching out a hand to help those who’ve fallen behind. There are small, unacknowledged acts of fearlessness and fortitude happening all around you. All you have to do is notice.
  4. The Great and Powerful Oz. Most Original. This one’s for the person who defies categorization. Quirky and outlandish can also be refreshing, inspirational, and lucrative. If you’ve got mavericks on the team who consistently think outside the box (or refuse to admit the existence of the box), this award is for them!

4mulate your own alternative categories and personalize them to your team!