Minami Family HR System: Edition 9

Last week, we completed the latest feedback session.

The conversation was a little strict.

There were positive points to share, but most of the discussion focused on expectations. Doing what needs to be done without being prompted. Taking responsibility for daily routines. Understanding that both promotion and demotion are always possibilities, depending on behaviour and effort.

There’s something that stayed with me.

My youngest daughter asked how I was evaluating the small things she does every day, like taking out the trash and washing dishes. It was a fair question. Much of real work, whether at home or in companies, is routine. It doesn’t always produce visible results. Sometimes success simply means maintaining the current state without mistakes.

At the same time, I’m having similar discussions with a client about performance appraisal in administrative and manufacturing roles. Evaluation criteria often become idealistic, while daily operational work is harder to capture on paper.

This reminded me that systems alone are not enough.

Of course, frameworks can be adjusted. But recognition also matters. A simple acknowledgement. Saying thank you in front of others. Making steady effort visible.

Routine work keeps organisations running. When it is seen and appreciated, people stay engaged. When it is overlooked, motivation quietly fades.