As plumbers, you’re used to solving problems — pipes burst, drains clog and water heaters fail, and you’re the ones to fix it. But what about when the problem isn’t a technical one? What about when your crew seems disengaged or burned out?
Keeping morale high and your team motivated is just as important as keeping tools sharp, especially in an industry as demanding as this one.
In this issue’s profile on Tim Rausch Plumbing & Remodeling in Appleton, Wisconsin, Tim Rausch keeps his team motivated and learning by creating a “buddy system” where journeymen are paired up with plumbers. The journeymen grade who they are paired up with, and Rausch also grades them. In the end, it builds camaraderie and helps with productivity and training.
It doesn’t take much to start a program like Rausch did, but his company was presented with a local newspaper award for one of the best employers in the area. He must be doing something right. A happy team is a productive team, and the best way to keep your crew enjoying their work is to think creatively about what makes the job rewarding. Here are a few ideas to spark enthusiasm and camaraderie on your team.
1. Celebrate Wins — Big and Small
Did your crew just finish a massive commercial project? Or did someone find a brilliant solution to a stubborn plumbing problem? Take time to celebrate! Whether it’s a quick shoutout in the morning meeting or a full-blown team lunch, recognizing achievements boosts morale and builds pride in a job well done.
2. Make Learning Fun
Plumbing is a field that’s always evolving, with new tools, materials and techniques coming out regularly. Turn training into a hands-on competition. For instance, set up a challenge to see who can assemble a system the fastest (correctly, of course) or troubleshoot a mock problem the quickest. Add a small prize to sweeten the deal, like a gift card or new tool for their kit.
3. Encourage Personalization
Let your team add a bit of personality to their work. Maybe it’s a custom decal on their toolbox, a funny nickname embroidered on their uniform or even a crew playlist that gets pumped up on the drive to the next job. Allowing individuality fosters a sense of ownership and pride in their role.
4. Create Traditions
Think about starting traditions that your crew looks forward to. It could be Taco Tuesdays at a favorite spot, an annual team outing like a bowling night or fishing trip or even a seasonal contest for the best-themed holiday hat. Traditions create bonds beyond the job and turn co-workers into friends.
5. Get Involved in the Community
Organize your crew to participate in local charity projects or events. Whether it’s volunteering to fix plumbing for a nonprofit or participating in a community parade, these efforts not only promote your business, but also build team spirit. Knowing their work contributes to something larger than themselves can give crew members a sense of purpose.
6. Open the Floor
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to engage your crew is to listen. Hold regular meetings where team members can voice their opinions, share ideas or offer feedback on workflows. Often, the people in the trenches have insights that can improve efficiency and job satisfaction.
7. Invest in the Little Things
Sometimes, it’s the small gestures that make the biggest difference. Keep a stash of snacks and drinks in the work truck. Surprise your team with coffee on a cold morning. These small tokens of appreciation go a long way toward making people feel valued.
At the end of the day, keeping your crew happy isn’t just about what happens on the clock — it’s about creating an environment where they feel respected, appreciated and motivated. When your team enjoys their work, it shows in the quality of the service they provide. And that’s a win for everyone — your crew, your customers and your business.
WHAT DO YOU DO?
What do you do for your team on a regular basis? I’d like to hear your ideas. Email me at editor@plumbermag.com.
Enjoy this issue!
