WILL YOU BE WATCHING?

Unless you have been hiding under a rock the last few days you have no doubt heard the leaders' debate had to be rescheduled so not to compete with ratings blockbuster MasterChef. What does this say about the state of a nation when the only televised debate between the two possible leaders is trumped by a reality tv cooking show? Is anyone really surprised at this? Can we really blame the average joe for becoming disillusioned with national politics or should we bow our heads in shame for being more interested in people we will never know and who will have no influence over our lives?





















The leaders' debate is "traditionally" scheduled for the first Sunday after the election is called and normally held in the 7.30pm time slot. The current PM decides the number of debates, rules and timing. I say "traditional" as the first televised leader's debate was held in 1984 between Bob Hawke and Andrew Peacock so it's hardly an ingrained part of our social fabric (speaking of Hawke, since watching the telemovie on Sunday night I can't erase the image of his withered old man chest - so unattractive yet in such contrast to his manly head of hair *shudder*). The debate has generally favored opposition leaders which may explain why Julia is only prepared to engage in one debate. Over the years the popularity of the televised event has steadily declined. 


















The MasterChef phenomenon is unprecedented. It is the most watched television show in our history. Last year 3.72 million viewers tuned in to the season finale, this year punters are predicting over 4 million will tune in. As far as water cooler shows go, MasterChef is a pearler - people obviously relate to it and love to talk about it. Michael Idato TV critic for the Sydney Morning Herald explained it beautifully on last night's 7.30 Report when he said of MasterChef "Food is fundamental part of our lives and it really taps into that without being cynical, with out being brutal, without being nasty, it's gentle and illuminating and they are very, very rare qualities". On the same show, Marc Brennan from the University of Sydney explained that one series of Big Brother drew more votes than the general election held that year which goes some way to illustrating the bond people have with reality tv over politics.
  
It appears to me there is a massive disconnect between our leaders and the general public. It is a sad state of affairs when the wider public feel they have more of a connection with ordinary people who ultimately have no influence or effect over our lives (ok, so they may influence the odd decision re. what to cook for dinner but that's about it). The same can't be said for our two leaders. It may not be the most interesting election campaign, it has been described in the media as the Seinfeld election, however this election will determine who will lead our country. Surely that warrants more interest in the debate? It saddens me to think of all the people who have died for their right to vote in other countries and we as a nation can't even feign any kind of faux interest in our upcoming election. 
 


Julia suggested that she wouldn't be 'dancing nor cooking' on Sunday night and that Australians will make up their own mind as to what they will watch. Maybe she should try a little Tango? On second thoughts absolutely not. It's fascinating stuff - both Julia and Tony are pretty authentic people in so far that they both wear their hearts on their sleaves. You may not agree with either one but you can't accuse either of being fake. I may not want to see her dancing and I think Abbott's budgie smugglers get far too much air time but I do want to see a genuine attempt to reconnect with the Australian public. Abbott's appearance on Hey Hey last night was risky but he seemed to get away relatively unscathed. Personally I find it extraordinarily uncomfortable watching our leaders on variety tv but if that's what it takes to connect, then that's what it takes.

I have to admit that I am a fan of MasterChef, not the most loyal viewer but what I have seen I have enjoyed; probably because I love being able to sit back and criticise or compliment each contestant as I see fit. So being a fan of MasterChef and someone who takes an avid interest in the characters that are charged with running this great country I am grateful that the decision was made to change the debate's timeslot.

Will you tune in to either show?

In late May I blogged about our Corporate Gifts including our tailored gift service. I touched on employee incentive and recognition programs and today I wish to continue that conversation. Good employers engage in incentive and recognition programs in order to motivate and retain quality staff. There are a number of reasons for wanting to motivate staff but first let's break down exactly what incentive and recognition programs are as they are often confused.

INCENTIVE PROGRAMS
The principle aim of an incentive program is to promote a specific selling activity that will result in increased "Cha Ching!" sounds at the register. If you want to motivate employees to do a specific task over a short period of time, for example increase the number of widgets sold, you would need to incentivise them with a point system for every set sold. When they reach a pre determined set of points they receive a cash or non cash reward.
Incentive programs can increase performance by 44% in teams and 25% in individuals*.Generally incentive programs motivate staff to sharpen their customer service skills which contributes to improved sales.


RECOGNITION PROGRAMS
If you want to create a corporate environment that continually motivates, generates enthusiasm, fosters loyalty and increases overall productivity then an ongoing recognition program is most appropriate. Recognition programs generate a psychological benefit AFTER a specific action or behavior has occurred. Recognition programs are designed to put the spotlight on well deserving employees both on a personal and public level. Corporate values should be reflected in the work of employees that receive recognition rewards. Good help is hard to find, keeping good help is even harder to do so if your goal is to increase retention and overall productivity then an effective recognition program will do the trick.

HR MUMBO JUMBO?
I hear you asking why you would bother engaging an incentive or recognition program. Employee motivation is the short answer. There are so many distractions in the work place these days especially with the advent of the internet and social media that it's a wonder any work gets done at all!

KEY ELEMENTS OF SUCCESS
As stated an effective incentive or recognition program motivates employees to work more diligently thus contributing to productivity levels. Regardless of the type of motivational program your company engages there are a few guidelines that will ensure its success.

KISS
The program must be simply and succinctly explained to employees, so follow the time tested advise and keep it simple stupid! If employees don't understand the program how are they supposed to act upon it? Complicated rules and regulations can bring even the best programs undone. Achievable and clearly defined goals will increase staff participation rates and propel momentum.

KEEP ON TRUKIN'
Programs must be ongoing as this clearly demonstrates a level of commitment from management as well as maximising staff participation rates.


FRESH IS BEST
The type of program you engage in must be exciting, relevant and contemporary. You don't want to run the risk of demotivating staff - that would be a disaster. The best programs continually evolve and change, bringing an element of surprise to the workplace. As soon as a particular reward is expected by an employee the psychological effect is diminished.



CASH v's NON CASH
There has been much debate about the effects of cash versus non cash rewards. Obviously different people are motivated by different outcomes so what's best? Cash awards work best for short term goals that seek to increase tangible outcomes. However, cash rewards get lost in the overall remuneration package and therefore forgotten or taken for granted. Cash rewards can become expected thus losing significance. Further to this there is no 'trophy' value in cash; this is important as rewards must satisfy the need for public recognition and boost the ego.

Non cash awards are most suited to non tangible goals where the employer seeks to improve motivation, loyalty or general corporate culture. Non cash rewards recognise employee efforts in a personal way; they demonstrate to the employee that the employer recognises them a humans, not just a number! It's a great opportunity to connect with employees thus strengthening relationships. Giving an employee a personalised gift that is relevant and meaningful to them significantly increases the positive impact of the reward. Quite literally it's the thought or message behind the gift that counts.

Giving a mass produced gift with a company logo emblazoned all over it is hardly relevant to an individual; these kinds of rewards only serve to make the employee feel half acknowledged. The reward must be appropriate to the employee's output and position. Cheap and cheerful gifts will not be appreciated however extravagant gifts can generate jealousy amongst peers. The reward/s on offer must most importantly be desired and valued by employees. This is why tailored corporate gifting has become an effective method of rewarding staff. 


 
BOULE SET $66                                  BBQ COOKBOOK $24.95   BBQ TOOLS AND APRON $49.95 

Giving personalised gifts demonstrates that the employer recognises that the employee is not just a numbe and has a life outside of work. It's all about nuturing successful employer and employee relationships!

GET CREATIVE
Often in slow economic times rewards and incentives are the first thing to be cut. Can you really afford to do this? By cutting out rewards you are also going to cut levels of motivation, moral, loyalty and ultimately productivity which will result in decreased sales. When times get tough, get creative! Take the time to personally thank your staff. Better yet, thank them over a few friday afternoon drinks at the office. Inexpensive and personal can work a treat - you just have to take the time to do it! 

* (Incentive, Motivation and Workplace Performance Study, by International Society of Performance Improvement)

LOVE JEWELLERY? LOVE A BARGAIN? YOU WILL LOVE THIS ....

Red Ribbon Gifts currently has a huge sale on its unique range of costume jewellery which includes designer labels Susie M, Lisa Marinucci, Jual and Zoda.

You will save 25 - 45% off RRP - these are genuine savings so get clicking!

Everyone loves a scoring a bargain, but the BEST bargains are those that make a contribution to your wardrobe! The easiest way to update your look is with accessories and you are sure to find a beautiful necklace or pair of earrings in the Red Ribbon Gifts jewellery sale!

SUSIE M
Susie M is an Australian label that creates classic pieces that appeal to ladies of all ages. The hoops are a beautiful gift for a younger female and the disco balls in clear and blue are perfect for a more mature recipient. The range is made from the best materials so you are assured of quality and with 35-45% off all Susie M jewellery you are assured a bargain as well!

       
Susie M Hoops                             Susie M Disco Blue                 Susie M Disco Clear
Were $99.00                                 Were: $64.90                          Were: $64.90
Now $54.45                                    Now: $42.20                         Now $42.20

LISA MARINUCCI
You will have to hurry to score a saving on one of the last pieces from Lisa Marinucci as the designer has now wrapped up production on her stunning label in order to pursue other opportunities. Lisa Marinucci hand crafts each of her unique designs using only high quality materials. We currently have 35-45% off Lisa Marinucci stock. Each of the designs stocked by Red Ribbon Gifts is perfect for formal or cocktail wear and so the perfect gift for a special occasion. 

         
Victorian Crystal        Precosia Earrings                        Peach and Gold Drop
Were $80                  Were: $185                                Were: $88
Now $52                   Now:$ $101.75                           Now $57.20

ZODA
Fun, fresh and fashion forward - Jual's designs will instantly update your look without breaking the bank and now you can save even more at the Red Ribbon Gifts Jewellery Sale. We currently have 25% off all Zoda so zip to it and zap a bargain - zazing!!


Aphrodite                       Athena                    Hestia                             Hera
Was $55                          Was $35                 Was $32                        Was $50
Now $41.25                      Now $26.25              Now $24                       Now $27

JUAL
Bold, captivating and contemporary are words that best describe the stunning designs from Jual presented by Cerri. Jual's specialised silversmiths use only the best materials to create their unique pieces. We currently have an amazing 35-45% off Jual. The Bombole necklace is well suited to women of all ages whilst the Pietra is most appropriate for a mature woman. 

      
Bombole                            Pietra
Was $375                          Was $290
Now $206.25                     Now $188.50