Change is Hard! Incorporating Values to Keep Staff Motivated Kandi Gresswell Associate Registrar Montana State University Bozeman

Cross your arms…

It’s harder than you probably expected.

Montana State University Registrar’s Office

Our Challenges, or, Default Settings The Office of “No” Generation Gap 17 Employees 30 years vs. brand new Physical and Emotional Separation Split level office Perceived behavioral difference between upstairs and downstairs Appreciation Can you hear thank you enough? Motivation The minimum amount required Engagement Birthdays, pot lucks, homecoming, life events Excellent Memory for Slights/Amnesia for Apologies The card in the back pocket

*Recognition *Purpose *Relationships

Step 1: Define Your Mission and Values You need a common focus/goal/vision/enter your motivating noun here! Staff definitions- it’s important they believe in the values they are asked to demonstrate!

RISE Values: Respect Integrity Student Success Excellence Mission: The Office of the Registrar values and reinforces the land grant mission of Montana State University, Bozeman, by empowering students to achieve their educational goals. This office subscribes to the highest ethical principles of our profession, maintains the accuracy, integrity, and security of all academic student records, and ensures full compliance with all related federal, state, and university regulations. Service is provided through open, collaborative, and accurate communication, respect for diversity, innovative improvements in efficiency and effectiveness, and an active commitment to an environment of collegiality, professionalism, and inclusiveness.

According to Our Staff… Respect I treat students and colleagues how I want to be treated. I strive to understand a situation or question before I thoughtfully respond. I am responsible for my own words, thoughts, and actions. I understand the impact my behavior and attitude have on my team. I focus on listening and encouraging my students or colleagues. Integrity I accept my mistakes and learn from them. I deliver on my commitments and take accountability for the results of my actions. I approach all challenges in a professional, honest, and ethical manner. I am transparent in my actions and focus on upholding policies and enforcing procedures. Student Success I am an advocate for students and help them accomplish their goals. I provide the student the necessary tools they need to be autonomous, capable, and confident individuals. I provide students with the information they need to make the best decision for their current situation or future goals. I empower the student to be successful by informing them of policies, procedures, and resources.    Excellence I respond in a timely manner, close the loop, and am eager to help without being prompted. I learn from failure, celebrate accomplishments, and anticipate the needs of my students and colleagues. I have a productive and positive attitude that allows me to meet and exceed expectations. I am organized, punctual, respectful, and deliver on my commitments.

Step 2: Define Your Reward System Top rewards: Public Kudos 2)Time away from work…hmmm…. 

RISE was Born!

Step 3: Catch Them Doing Good! One value is celebrated every month Each staff member gets one card and it is their job to GIVE IT AWAY to a coworker they feel is demonstrating the value that month. At the end of the month, a RISE Exemplar is chosen- celebrated in our office, website, and facebook Rewards for staff who gave away/received cards!

Step 4:Show ‘em Off!

Things We Know So Far Our default setting IS changing Our reputation IS changing Positive attention is more impactful, time efficient, and sustainable than negative attention The better we are to each other, the better we are to our students.

Culture Committee Birthdays Social Events Office Newsletter Celebration of Traditions Employee Social Wellness The Culture Committee is dedicated to fostering a united and cohesive work environment for all employees of the Registrar’s Office. We deliver on that commitment by organizing and offering fun, engaging and inclusive activities for all, upholding traditions and being receptive to staff input and feedback. Goals: Have FUN! We spend a great deal of time with the people we work with, so it is important to enjoy the environment and offer a variety of activities that peak interest across the board. In addition, this committee will be instrumental in helping to promote overall employee wellness; whether it be social, physical wellness etc. with opportunities for team building, team volunteer activities, and activities within the work environment as well as outside of work.

Teamwork

Our advice to you: Success! Listen to your staff Let them define their values and their rewards Invest a lot of time, and a little bit of money if you can! We are all leaders Use “we” Time Effort Consistency Success!

Questions?