By Steven Geigle, CSHM - May 2006

Aubrey Daniels is one of my favorite authors and a definite "guru" in helping you to build an effective safety incentive and recognition program. Below is a book review of Daniel's best seller, Bringing Out the Best in People. From the book's jacket we read, "Pioneered by leading behavioral psychologist Dr. Aubrey C. Daniels, this comprehensive performance management system will enable you to motivate every employee in your company to fulfill his or her maximum potential."

Book Review: Bringing Out the Best in People by Aubrey Daniels

Leo E. Walsh, a book reviewer wrote, "What are Daniel's principles? First of all, that people do what they do because of reinforcement. Reinforcement comes in two main forms: positive and negative. Negative reinforcement does not necessarily mean punishment, but that positive reinforcement is withheld. Punishment is a subset of negative reinforcement, largely overused.

"Daniels then goes on to show the "ABC's" of behavior (Antecedent, Behavior, Consequences), and illustrate why some behaviors are not easy to shape (the consequences are uncertain). Once you understand the basics, it becomes easy to look for opportunities to shape your reports' behaviors by rewarding what you want then to do ... making the UNCERTAIN consequence CERTAIN: "If I do this, my manager will be happy," instead of the UNCERTAIN, "I am not sure if this will work... Will my peers scoff at me?..." Daniels finishes up with several insightful case studies about how his principles have been applied in the real world. This can give you solid ideas on how to apply them in your neck of the woods."

You find more information about Aubrey Daniels organization, ADI, at his website: aubreydaniels.com.