Steris is a global leader in infection prevention and surgical technologies based in the US and serving clients around the world. Leaders of the North American Service organization wanted to create buzz and momentum for their implementation of Uplifting Service (UP) education. On the second floor at corporate headquarters, over 400 staff from the internal service support groups sit in a large, wide-open space. These employees handle calls and inquiries from customers and field service technicians all across North America. They are “the heartbeat of service” at Steris.
Steris office with no balloons flying….yet.
Steris began providing UP education for the company by focusing on these internal support teams. As each team completed the service course, every team member received 2 helium-filled balloons, in Steris brand colors, to float above their workstation.
Steris balloons begin to fly
As the number of balloons gradually grew throughout the large workspace, employees began to take notice ask about the service education. “How do I get my balloon?” And leaders began to take notice and asked how soon their own staff could complete the training. “When can my team get our balloons?” Even reluctant leaders began to feel the pressure of being left behind.
Steris balloons in full flight!
Soon over 200 staff had completed the UP course and more teams were pressing to attend. Then leaders from other divisions were asking for UP education, and even customers began hearing positive buzz about the program.
This simple strategy of uplifting recognition gave employees a sense of pride about their company’s focus on service. The visible and growing display of balloons was a reminder of the importance of service in daily interactions, and a celebration of the company, the team, and each individual’s service commitment. We live in a high-tech world, but sometimes old fashioned balloons are just what we need to uplift service!
Mark English, VP North America Service, celebrating Uplifting Service Education with Steris team members
What uplifting ideas do you use to promote service education and service improvements where you work?
Jeff,
What a great invention (balloons above desks) to make UYS training visible, AND to create buzz for others to press for the training. Your view of the way the workplace looks as a reminder to people of the importance of a service mindset emphasizes the point you are making.
How do I get my balloons?
Dan H.
What a fun way to deliver the message about customers and training. Jut pause for a moment and think of all f the positive associations you have when you see a balloon or even hear the word, balloon, which is kind of silly in itself.
One more reminder that sometimes the “small” ideas aren’t so small after all.
Thanks Jeff