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Navigator On-Line

Spring 2002

Recognizing Our Members

By Commodore Gene M. Seibert,
National Vice Commodore Atlantic (East)

How often has it been stated that our members are our most valuable assets? The reason for this repetitive statement is simply because it is TRUE! They are directly responsible for the quality of a unit's programs and its creativity in dealing with the unexpected. They are the strength and foundation of the Coast Guard Auxiliary.

As a result of the tragic events of September 11th, the Coast Guard is changing its course to address the issues of Homeland Defense and Maritime Domain Awareness. The Auxiliary to some extent must also change course to support the changing needs of the Coast Guard and to find our niche in the "new Normalcy," while at the same time, stay our course to address our traditional mission of Recreational Boating Safety.

Likewise, since the events of 9/11, we see Americans paying greater attention to their families. We too as an organization must give greater attention and recognition to our members for their outstanding efforts. We need to make a concentrated effort to foster membership recognition for this is the only real compensation that our members receive.

Now more than ever, we must recognize the importance of each individual member and their contributions, no matter how big or small that contribution may be. Positive recognition is one of the most powerful motivators that we as leaders and as individuals have and it cost virtually nothing to use, except for a little honest attention to our members. In today's world, people need to achieve, grow, and contribute more than ever before, while at the same time receiving well-desired recognition. It is this recognition, that is the source of personal gratification for them.

While feedback is the ongoing process of giving members the information to perform their missions better, recognition is an event that highlights positive results. In some ways recognition goes far beyond simple feedback. It encourages continued accomplishments and adds the priceless human element of our personal attention to a job well done. It fills not only an organizational need to share information, but it also fills one of our most basic human needs - to be valued and appreciated.

Giving positive recognition to our members serves man purposes:

• It communicates a personal appreciation for work well done that goes far beyond a paycheck.
• It encourages members to continue their positive efforts because they are being noticed and appreciated.
• It avoids the resentment that can build when members are led to believe that they and their contributions are simply taken for granted.
• It helps members to be more positive toward one another because they personally feel appreciated.
• It communicates unit values and goals and helps members know where to focus their efforts.

If you sincerely think a member has done a good job, or if you want to show appreciation for someone's help or support, don't wait around to let them know.

Remember that there are many rewards for recognizing the positive results of members. For the member receiving it, it helps strengthen their feelings of self-worth and reinforces motivation and purpose in performing their mission. For you the person giving it, it becomes an expression of your satisfaction and pried. For the unit, it helps to sustain and increase their overall contributions and achievement.

Therefore, now more than ever, we all need to make a conscious and genuine effort to "Remember and Recognize our Members."