25 Unique work moments as a source for stories

I often hear people say, "What do you mean stories at work. We don't have stories floating around here." I tell them to remember 3rd grade language arts. In a story there's a goal, an obstacle (the big bad wolf, aka big deadline), a hero or two, and sometimes a lesson learned. Sounds a little like work right?

GoodSeeker is a new platform to capture work stories through the lens of employees, partners, customers clients, members, etc. When you bottle them up they say a lot about your organization and culture. Share them internally to engage and show appreciation, then promote them externally to show the world who and what makes your workplace special.

Anyone who experiences your values in action can share a story with your team using GoodSeeker. And talent is always the hero.

I've learned that it helps to remind people of typical moments at work that can be the source of stories - now easily captured with GoodSeeker. Here are 25 to start.

• Connected Culture - Just because you're not in the cube next door doesn't mean you're not crushing it. Pull' em in with a story that connects everyone on the team and gives good work visibility. ‍

• “Just Doing My Job” -  Hearing this can also mean, “I’m giving it my all because I care.” And it probably means, "I've been doing it for a long time and it feels awesome to see it appreciated." This a wonder chance to give credit where its due, and when least expected.‍

• First Impressions - Whether it's a new hire or the first time working with someone in a new department. That first interaction was etched on your brain. Yet, how often do they know the impression they’ve made? Perfect moment to share a story to highlight their positive impact. ‍

• A Surprise Mentor - Whether the role is formal or not, when you've been around the block you owe your sage advice to others. Share positive feedback and reinforce what matters with a story.‍

• Perfectly-timed Help - So you thought you could do it alone. Easier said than done. When someone shows up at just the right time to lend a hand or their back … give them a story. ‍

• Firsts of Anything - It's not easy to break from status quo, to introduce something new, or to take a chance. Applaud those who try new things big and small. Without their leaps of faith there is no progress.‍

• Project Progress - Big project with lots of milestones? Maybe a curve ball or two to throw things off course? Applaud small wins and lessons learned that keep the ball rolling. Use stories to show progress and appreciation at the same time.‍

• Customer Feedback - It’s validation your efforts matter. So the company gets credit, but the team powers the results. Share a story to give it visibility, to inspire others, and to make sure “everyone” involved realizes their connection and contribution. ‍

• Wins (and losses) - Celebrate wins, and the small victories in defeat. Sharing new business stories is the modern day "ring-the-bell." It's one thing to be loud, it's another to remember why. ‍

• Company Initiatives - Build support by recognizing examples that highlight the positive impact and good things that come from new priorities and investments.‍

• Intern Impact - Help them build more than a line on a resume. Give them the gift knowing that their contribution mattered. Sharing intern success stories also make you really attractive to top candidates. ‍

• Personal Achievements - They finished school while working, earned a volunteer award from the charity you support, get promoted to most amazing manager. Applaud  personal accomplishments with a story.‍

• Upward Kudos - The boss needs a boost too. Show them you see the small things they do to help others.

• ‍Promote Good Habits - We take the for granted. Old reliable. They make all the difference but are too often taken for granted. Never let a good work habit go unappreciated. Call it out with a story. ‍

• Capture Lessons Learned - Behind every lesson-learned there's a story that can make us all better next time around.  Be bold and share it.‍

• New Hire Welcome- It feels great to know that you're making a splash when you dive in as someone new. Welcome them with a story when you see the connection to company values in the early days.‍

• Applaud Team Spirit - Some show pride when it's needed most. They surprise you with their energy and positivity. Applaud them for reminding us we belong to something cool. ‍

• Partnership Progress - Build strong relationships with partners by recognizing the small successes that you achieve together. ‍‍

• ‍Exceeding Expectations - When you get more than what you expect, someone did more than what was expected of them. Let them know the impact they make by sharing a story. ‍

• O’ Shoot Moments - Made a wrong step but it all worked out? Recognize those who came through. Then capture a story so others can learn.‍

• Wearing Many Hats - Some people balance a lot because necessity calls for it. The more the better. There's a story in what they accomplish wearing those hats and it deserves to be shared. ‍

• Hidden Talents - “Wow, where did you learn to do that?” When surprise skills and undiscovered talent shows up big, give em props with a story.

• ‍Volunteer Efforts - Those who give back make our communities and companies better. Share their story to inspire a culture that stands for good.‍

• Organize This! - Behind the scenes it was no easy task to pull off that 100 person zoom call. When they pull together all the pieces share a story to show them it rocked.

• Fun and Laughs - Work is pretty serious right now. Recognize those who raise the fun factor for everyone. It takes good people to lighten things up.