Fun helps change behavior for the better, whether for yourself or those you supervise. I watch superintendent Dereck Hench get amazing production on our projects from his employees and from other trade contractors. He makes it clear to all his employees that they must help others on the job whenever it’s reasonable. For example, if he sees a guy struggling to lift something, he jumps in to help. Everyone on the jobsite gets strongly encouraged likewise.

We also try to keep a forklift on the jobsite to keep guys from having to carry materials multi-floors or in other difficult ways. Everyone appreciates the help, which isn’t required in the contract, but just lubricates the flow on the jobsite. As we all work together more as a team, our jobsite cleaning goes smoother and the work fulfillment increases.

Adding a general attitude of fun on the jobsite makes this cooperation even more effective. We all will work harder and mind the work less if we’re having fun. Consider TheFunTheory website that Volkswagon produced. They show examples of how behavior changes for the better when some fun gets introduced to the equation.

Watch this video about a stair renovation that made the adjacent escalator much less used.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y9V7pKR728o

As you contemplate 2011 and look forward to 2012, please consider the fun theory. Whether it’s vowing to live a healthier life or produce more at work, make sure you build fun into the plan to increase the likelihood of success.