Touch Points

A Break From Winter Blues

In many parts of the country, the long cold stretch between the winter holidays and spring can really get people down. That's when it's time for a quick, fun morale booster. But what to do?

Service Starter #1 - Motivation is Going to the Dogs

Our editors suggest that you look to reps' daily activities and interests for timely and fun activities.

For example, many of us already participate in Super Bowl Pools, March Madness Basketball Pools, and World Series Pools, but there's more. Douglas Publications recently had a pool for the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. Because the names of the contestants in this event aren't well known, all the staff did was pick the winning breed in each category and a Best in Show winner. Correct category picks were worth 10 points apiece and the Best in Show winner was worth 25 points.

Opportunities abound for pools, from sporting events, to reality TV shows, to when the roadway construction project in front of your office will finally be finished, to how many inches of snow you'll get this winter. The key is to keep the pool relevant and have fun no matter what you choose.

Service Starter #2 - More Motivation Ideas...

Leave No Stone Unturned

• Michele Miller's Bio

Column by my Wizard of Ads partner Michele Miller from Inc.com

“I’ve done everything possible to create good relationships with my clients,” a physician announced with just a hint of smugness during one of my recent seminars. “I’ve decorated my office with marble pillars and resort-style furniture. I’ve painted the rooms soothing colors and have a Japanese fountain in the waiting room to calm the nerves. There is a variety of magazines on the coffee table that appeal to different personalities. I even have a cappuccino corner where patients can make themselves a beverage. I’ve covered all the bases. You can’t possibly add anything -- there’s nothing left.”

I let his statement hang like Air Jordan for a few ticks of the clock, then arched an eyebrow and asked, “How long do your patients have to sit in the waiting room before they’re escorted in to see you?”

It was like hitting him with a two-by-four....