Byron's Babbles

We all know people are key assets for any organization. It is the human assets, not the fixed or tangible assets that differentiate an organization from its competitors. I was reminded of this last night when I experienced Buff City Soap for the first time. For those that aren’t familiar, these two sentences from their website tell it all: “Frustrated by commercial soaps’ harsh chemicals, detergents, and animal fats, Brad and Jen set out to create a better way in 2013. So we created Buff City Soap – delightfully scented plant-based soaps, handmade daily, in front of your eyes in our Soap Makeries.” So, in we went.

After being greeted by Francys and Alese, who were making soap when I walked in, I noticed the workbenches. Then my curiosity kicked in and I asked if I could help. They laughed and said, “Do you want to make your own bath bomb?” Are you kidding me? “Yes!” I sat down and Francys and Alese started educating me. First I had to pick a fragrance from what looked like hundreds of bottles. Frances made the suggestion of Ferocious Beast, and I rolled with it.

After applying the fragrance, with Alese’s guidance, I picked a palette of colors. Then Francys gave me my paint, brushes, and instructions. Then, when I was done painting, Alese helped me apply glitter. I had made my own bath bomb. Success! And, so much fun! The reason it was so much fun was because of Francys and Alese. We’re sold on Buff City Soap.

Employees champion the organizations and businesses where they work and determine the success or failure of those organizations and businesses. Every person brings a different set of skills to the table even though the job yields the same set of skills. Organizations need to recognize the value their employees and make sure they continually develop their talents and skills.

I want to praise the knowledge, expertise, abilities, skillsets, and experience of Francys and Alese. They both have incredible people skills and my hope for them is that they will always be a part of an organization that recognizes that and continues to help them grow personally and professionally. How about you? Do you recognize that your people are your most important asset? Are you helping others grow? Because, just like Buff City Soap says about their soap, every employee and teammate is unique and 1 of 1.