About the Book: What do three-year-olds, teddy bears, and great leaders have in common? They all know the value of lots of hugs. Sure, kids and teddy bears are natural huggers, but leaders, managers, executives? Obviously, in the workplace, we are talking about metaphorical hugs-the small, everyday acts of recognition that make employees feel appreciated, validated and recognized for the efforts and contributions they make for the success of the business. Great managers know that. They know that these small acts of recognition will help them to realize their full potential and the full potential of their people. All of us are driven by a strong need to be appreciated (or "hugged," if you will) rather than rejected and hurt. The power of helping others, of acknowledging others, of making them feel good, of teaching and inspiring them, the power of thanking them, of simply being nice to them-of being able to give them a virtual "hug"-is immense. It's far more rewarding than one can imagine, far more satisfying, and delivers far more tangible and positive results than people realize. Think about it, being scolded, put-down, or even bullied, makes employees shut down, check out, and disengage, with disastrous consequences to the success of the business. Recognition, on the other hand, is a powerful motivator. It's the fuel that drives people to higher levels of achievement, engagement, and fulfillment. Learning easy ways to recognize and appreciate your employees will enhance their dedication, motivation, accountability, and satisfaction on the job and, therefore, will be a potent driver to increase your organization's productivity, minimize mistakes, and improve bottom-line results. Gimme a Hug explains how the basic human need for a "hug" manifests itself in the workplace, the various disguises it hides behind, and how to manage and deal with it to make yourself and the people you interact with better and more fulfilled in many ways. Shows how to become a better manager and get better results from your people, simply by learning to express your appreciation for them and for what they do. Includes lots of simple, proven tips and techniques that you can apply immediately to unlock the true potential in your employees. Features stories and examples, sample dialogues, and practical tools and exercises to help you implement the "give a hug, get a hug" philosophy into your management style. Teaches you how to recognize and maximize every day, on-the-job "coaching moments," and how to provide constructive feedback to your employees. Gimme a Hug proves and demonstrates that this 'hug' thing is not a 'soft and mushy' issue but rather a major element and management technique that will generate far better bottom-line results and create a real culture of success Gimme a Hug reveals how small, simple, everyday acts of recognition can make a big difference in your business, and to the people who work there."