Writing Projects - Showcasing “Employee of the Month”

Quality writers usually have a recipe so to speak regarding how they approach writing projects. 

I have written about crime and justice for decades, customized victim impact statements,  detailed investigative narratives,  disability and missing persons, LGBTQ+ issues and many other topics. 

They are not one size fits all. Each topic requires careful consideration, the purpose, the audience, the scope- length. 

However, in my opinion, the most important ingredientis how to engage the reader!

Shortly after I joined my current residential community ten months ago, the Executive Director asked if I would consider taking on the assignment of writing narratives for her “Employee of the Month,” also known as the “Best of the Best.”

I was willing to take it on with a small built-in incentive. 

The awardees are recognized at a group gathering based on written comments collected over time followed by a random pick from a bowl of names. The winner(s) receive $100.00, a certificate and the opportunity to have a narrative written by yours truly to be featured on a special  resident’s app.

I created a few generic -open-ended questions (7), to be used with all winners. 

 Examples - “How does it feel to be awarded “Employee of the Month?”

“Tell me about your heritage, background, talents, hobbies and education.”

“What is most important to you in your role as ___?”

“What is the greatest asset for you about working at ___?”

How is this job preparing you for your future goals and aspirations? 

“What have you learned?”

GROUND RULES-  I established include:

 1) The ability to ‘opt out.’

Not everyone is comfortable being interviewed.  

Not everyone wants to be showcased. 

I make every effort, but I opt out of ‘chasing the individual’ and notify the  Executive Director if it doesn’t work out for some reason. 

I’m sure every person wants and needs the $100.00 versus my interview.

(No offense taken!)

2)  I make it clear to the awardee that they did not have to reveal anything of a personal nature about which they aren’t comfortable. 

In addition, if they reveal anything to me of a personal nature NOT for public consumption, it will remain confidential.

3) I do my best to make them feel comfortable talking to me.

ENGAGING WRITING CONTENT-

Every individual is different. Sometimes it’s easy to converse with others, while other people are more reserved. 

Management is exempt from this  award process. 

Therefore, it’s important that companies find ways to make their staff level employees shine. Perhaps it’s their first job or a part time-job.

Many employees work long hours for not the highest pay. 

These are the situations I feel I can help them create a legacy, build confidence and appreciation and establish life skills as they proceed on in their life goals.

I take the task seriously. 

Addressing the topic of true engagement of the audience… that is the challenge and the passion for me. 

Some awardees may view their lives as mundane.

However, it is my job to find that kernel of fascination and get them talking about that interesting aspect that the readers can either relate to or marvel at the thought! 

I have also requested of the Executive Director that a photo be included showcasing a particular talent (with their permission) or if the employee is ‘behind the scenes’ and not often recognized, a personal photo. 

These employees become part of a larger family, serving us in some capacity day in and out. They deserve to be appreciated! 

Following the initial interview, I spend approximately another three hours on the thought process, creation and writing- editing with final submission of the profile for a total of ~ 4 hours.

Whether it be for overall exemplary service or skill… or recognition for dealing with 150 different senior personalities under one roof, my hat is off to them! 

MY MESSAGE TO YOU-

You, too, can reap the benefits of a short writing project such as an Employee of the Month narrative. 

***50% OFF SPECIAL OFFER - $50.00/HOUR - NOW THROUGH JULY 1, 2026! 

Please get in touch with me through this link on my website!  

https://donnagore.com/store/p/writingprojects

I’m looking forward to the opportunity to work with you! 

Free estimates provided! 

Related additional blogs of interest - 

https://donnagore.com/blog/take-24-the-two-way-street-of-consulting;

https://donnagore.com/blog/consulting-santas-list-and-other-writing-projects

Thank you! 

Donna