Monthly Award “Catches On” in Financial Services Department

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When Associate Vice President Ben Lowenthal began his tenure within the Financial Services Department, he brought with him an idea that has everyone “hooked.”
Written by Stephen C. Lundin, Harry Paul and John Christensen, the FISH! philosophy covers ways to boost morale in the workplace while focusing on customer service and is based on the daily attitudes of operations at the Seattle Fish Market. The philosophy is simple and covers four areas: make a person’s day, be present, choose your attitude and always make time for “play”. Lowenthal introduced this model to his employees through a monthly “Catch of the Month” in which employees are awarded for using the four tenets of the FISH! philosophy. Anyone in the department is able to nominate another coworker based on an incident in which one or all of the components are used.
“The ‘Catch of the Month Award’ creates excitement and fosters a sense of cooperation,” said Lowenthal. “The focus is on customer service to both internal and external customers. People like to be recognized. It’s been a wonderful tool to boost morale and productivity throughout Financial Services.”
Each month, Lowenthal and Executive Administrative Assistant Jean Donohue present the award in the Administration building, 4th Floor Lobby. Lowenthal reads a description of how the winner used the FISH! philosophy but eliminates references to names to build suspense.
The award winner receives both a $25 gift certificate to the UMBC Bookstore and a stuffed version of “Pete the Perch” in a themed container, decorated by Donohue. Several people in the department now have their own “Pete” sitting on their desks as trophies.
To view the April presentation, click the play button below.