I love slogans, creative commercial jingles, and rally cries for teams and organizations. Think of your favorite commercial jingle, you can visualize the person saying it right? I think that ability to visualize a commercial or jingle says a lot about branding as well as the message of the company or person themselves.
I have been blessed and fortunate to work with so many great people over the years in Port Jervis, New York. It is a wonderful school community filled with passionate and talented educators and wonderful families. In my opinion, it’s the definition of a true proud community.
This year, I noticed that one particular employee with great enthusiasm was using the phrase “Oooh yeah” very often. When he would greet me in the morning, he would offer a warm and welcoming greeting of “good morning, Oooh yeah.” Midday, I would ask “how’s it going?” and he would respond with “Oooh yeah”. So many varying situations and they would either start or end with “oooh yeah” a smile and a laugh.
At first, I thought that it was different, and after a while, it started to catch on. I started responding with “Oooh yeah” and maybe a fist bump. Then an Oooh yeah and a high five. It felt contagious and was actually quite uplifting. I felt more energized and more enthusiastic after hearing it and saying it. He started to say it louder and more often. It was really starting to catch on around the building. I decided he needed a shirt so that now his message is not only audible but visual too.
To me, it’s a simple little saying, but what does it mean? In my opinion, it means he is ready. He is positive and he is enthusiastic. He has a how can I help you attitude and an I’m going to get the job done mindset. How do you respond when people greet you? Do they respond Oooh yeah or did they respond Oh no? I think it’s so important that we energize others with our words and in our actions. A simple smile and a boost of energy with an Oooh yeah can go a long way.
I’m grateful for this individual and the many talented and caring educators and people in the community of Port Jervis. Continue to celebrate and honor your community in the little and big things that people are doing. Normally, I end with #SurviveThrive but today’s blog will end with a big Oooh yeah!
If I can help you in anyway don’t hesitate to reach out.
Quote: The key to successful leadership today is influence, not authority.
—Kenneth Blanchard
