What It Is
Community lift is when you turn individual effort into a group win.
One person’s success inspires everyone else to step up. It’s contagious—like a rising tide, but less poetic.
How It Works
Spotlight a few, and the rest lean in.
When you publicly recognize someone’s effort, two things happen:
- They feel seen (and keep going)
- Everyone else thinks, “I want that too”
The key? Make it real, not forced. People can smell fake recognition from a mile away.
When It Backfires
Spotlight the same people too often, and the rest give up. “I’ll never be top 10, why try?”
The fix? Rotate categories. Don’t just reward “most sales.” Reward “most improved,” “best team player,” “most creative approach.”
Make the spotlight wide enough that everyone has a shot.
Examples That Click
Our Fundraiser Story: We gave certificates to the top 10 sellers—signed by the principal, handed out in front of the school. Sales shot up because folks wanted that nod. Teachers even used them for salary portfolios, lifting the whole school vibe.
Read the full story
Nike Run Club: Log a 5K, get a badge on the app. Your win pushes friends to lace up too—community momentum, one runner at a time.
Employee of the Month: Done right—like at Southwest Airlines—it’s not just a plaque. It’s a signal that effort ripples out, boosting team morale.
Why It’s Cool
It’s a multiplier. One small move lifts everyone.
Plus, it builds loyalty without begging for it. When people feel part of something bigger, they stick around.