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FISH! is a lighthearted approach to the issue of creating energized, inspired and fun workplaces. Based on the real-life Pike Place Fish Market in Seattle, the book is written as a parable to demonstrate how some workplaces transform otherwise ordinary and unglamorous work into an extraordinary and dynamic experience for employees and customers.

Co-authors Stephen C. Lundin, Harry Paul and John Christensen bring their experiences in corporate training, motivation and the Ken Blanchard Cos. (noted for The One Minute Manager) to describe four principles that must be present to energize a workplace.

First, each employee must recognize the significance of choosing the attitude he or she brings to work each day. Second, we must find ways to introduce an appropriate level of play into the work, even if it is tedious, boring or deadly serious work. Third, employees need to fully engage the customers in the good time and involve them in the playful atmosphere. Finally, employees must be fully present or involved in their work and in their relationships with customers and coworkers.

Although I usually tend to look down on management self-help books, I found FISH! to be special. It highlights a phenomenon in which a small number of organizations are able to make the ordinary seem extraordinary. Usually it comes down to the employees--average people doing the exceptional. FISH! helps to explain how these organizations are able to accomplish the unusual.

FISH! is unique in the clarity and simplicity of its powerful message, and it just might provide superintendents with a few new insights on making schools better, more enjoyable places for the adults and children who spend most of their days inside them.

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