Donations: Granite Education Foundation

Every year Coller Industries makes an effort to recognize its employees during the holiday season. In turn, this translates to donations to various parts of our community. So, we started donating to Granite Education Foundation, and to date, have given over $57,000. The annual contribution to GEF is one of the donations that we deem the most valuable. As employees here at Coller Industries, it is a delight knowing that our employer is so generous and giving to our community.

We are giving to the schools, the children, and most importantly, we are providing for our future. The knowledge that this money goes to help the children in our community is what keeps us giving. It isn’t about the money; it’s about the future of our kids and where they will lead us because they were able to obtain a good education.

2016 Granite Education Foundation award dinner Gary Coller and recipient Lisa Foster. — GEF recipient Lisa Foster with Gary Coller

2017 Granite Education Foundation award dinner Gary Coller and recipient Emily Lehnardt. — GEF recipient Lisa Foster with Gary Coller

“We donate because it’s the right thing to do,” said Gary Coller, Coller Industries’ President. “We do it for the children in our neighborhood. They make us more responsible in the community. And hopefully, our customers appreciate when they see that we give back.”

Well said, Gary! These donations make us more responsible, and also make us more aware of the needs in our communities. From needing name tags in school and other places of business to needing a helping hand to members of our community, people can always find Coller Industries in the act of giving.

The Coller family and their employees take pride in knowing we have reached out to our surrounding community. We will continue to do so in the hopes that we are helping our friends and neighbors. And we are also aiding in the education and celebration of our children.

Why Honor Teachers?

Research shows that students with high performing teachers can progress three times faster than students with low performing teachers. Effective educators can influence the climate of the entire school. Their commitment, passion, expertise and creativity are infectious. Students love them because they make learning fun and engaging. Administrators love them because they get results. Parents love them because they affirm their student’s potential.

In the face of increasing class sizes and insufficient funding and resources, the majority of Granite District teachers are dipping into their own pockets and their own time to bridge the gap for their students. Educators are finding progressive and engaging solutions to institutional problems and changing the world, one child at a time.

Being a professional educator is not an easy job, and sometimes it can even be thankless. But, thanks to these amazing teachers and administrators, public education continues to excel.

The Granite Education Foundation, Making a Difference

Whether it’s in your own school community or a neighboring Granite District School, we believe there is nothing more important than improving a student’s life. We strive to lift lives and assist in providing resources to bolster education by uniting individuals, organizations and the business community with the will, passion, expertise and resources needed to solve problems. We are dedicated to giving Granite District students a hand up. That’s a difference you can count on.

The foundation recognizes and honors superior educators, true classroom heroes, the men and women responsible for molding and preparing our children to meet the challenges of the 21st century. These individuals have a track record of improving student achievement, using innovative instructional strategies and making a difference in the lives of students. They are among a select few highlighted annually as Excel Outstanding Educators who are making a difference in Granite School District classrooms.

So, what is the Excel Award?

Each year, Granite Education Foundation supporters gather to recognize outstanding teachers, administrators and community members whose personal commitment and contribution impacts 68,000 students in the Granite School District. The Excel Award is given to nine teachers and one administrator that school administrators, colleagues or students nominate. Nominees make the presentations while enjoying dinner, silent and live auctions. These raise funds for valuable programs and services that GEF sponsors throughout the year.

A presenter asks each award recipient to join them on stage to receive their award. They were also given a $1,000 check and other generous gifts. Each Excel Award recipient received a sculpture, designed by local Utah sculptor, Matt Glenn. This sculpture comes in two parts. The bottom portion has the four Granite Education Foundation hand icons from their logo. They symbolize educate, give, volunteer and advocate. The top portion is a student’s hand reaching for a teacher’s hand. Recipients can remove this piece and turn it over so that the teacher’s hand extends up toward the student’s hand.

“I look forward to this every year, it’s an honor to be around great educators and dedicated professionals who support them,” said Gary.

“Educational awards, such as the GEF Excel Award, are awesome because children are the future,” said Hannah, Coller Industries’ Customer Service Manager. “Teachers are important and deserve this recognition for what they do for our children. Watching the videos of each teacher and their stories and how they make a difference in the kid’s lives was the best part of the evening.”

How We Show Gratitude & Appreciation

These are big words: gratitude, appreciation, community. And their meanings are even more significant! From product donations to monetary help, the time we spend investing in education, our children and our community means a great deal to us. Sometimes it isn’t about the name tags, it’s about helping our community.

We value education here at Coller Industries, and we want to make sure that everyone gets the education they need. This includes family, friends and neighbors alike. Making students a priority; from our community to you, donations create unity.

In a nutshell, “We donate money for clothes and shoes for the kids in the Granite School District. Then we get to honor these great teachers for their excellent work by presenting the award on behalf of Coller Industries and the Granite Education Foundation,” said Hannah.

Coller Industries is proud to be a part of this process. While our role is small in comparison to these educators, we are still happy that we get to take part. Our children’s education has a direct impact on our business as we like to focus on working in our community. Helping out our local community is a large part of what defines the generosity of Coller Industries Incorporated.

Saying Thank You to Granite Education Foundation

We believe in giving toward the education of our children and our future. And because of that, we have enjoyed receiving something back. Each year, as a thank you for our time and money, Granite Education Foundation has some of their school children write and send a personal thank you. We are always thrilled when our special letter arrives.

Every year around this time, Coller Industries receives a special package. Inside this package are not only handwritten thank you Valentines, but also lots and lots of love. We receive these cards due to our annual donations to the Granite Education Foundation. And every year, our hearts are filled with gratitude and appreciation for those in our community.

Included each year along with thank you cards from students and parents is a wonderful letter from the foundation:

“Hey, Valentine!

Exchanging heartfelt messages on Valentine’s Day is a well-loved tradition. While the earliest Valentines were little more than hastily scribbled notes, today we can choose from thousands of varieties, each designed for a specific relationship in our lives. A hundred years ago, only sweethearts exchanged Valentine’s Day cards, but the practice has spread to encompass friends, family, colleagues and supporters.

The Granite Education Foundation and students from throughout Granite School District wanted to express our heart felt thanks for your continued generosity and support. Enclosed you will find hand made Valentine’s Day cards that our students created with YOU in mind. In our opinion, YOU’RE AWESOME SAUCE, Valentine! Thanks for believing in our mission and for the extra boost you give students. We couldn’t accomplish what we do without YOU.

Thank you with all our heart!”

2016 GEF Valentine's Day Cards from students to Coller Industries.

2017 GEF Valentine's Day Cards from students to Coller Industries.

2018 GEF Valentine's Day Cards from students to Coller Industries.

Other letters have also stated, “The Granite Education Foundation has been established to supplement the excellent programs in Granite District’s schools, to help provide the highest classroom opportunities for each child, and for teacher excellence awards. Know that you are helping dreams come true.”

Coller Industries also received a thank you letter from Brent Severe, CEO of the Granite Education Foundation. It read as follows:

“Thank you for investing in futures through your generous donation to the Granite Education Foundation for programs in Granite School District. Because of you, more students can pursue an education in an environment that cultivates excellence. Your generosity creates possibilities, and your kindness nurtures engaged learning which will enrich education opportunities for our youth.”

These actions we make each year fill our hearts with gratitude and appreciation for those around us. Those who strive every day to make a difference in the world. So, yes, we receive thank you cards. But we feel that we are the ones who should be the most grateful. And that, in essence, is why we give donations.

While our role is small in comparison to each of these educators, we are beyond happy that we have been able to take part in this fantastic award opportunity. And we want to say thank you to the GEF for all of the outstanding work they do for our education system here in Salt Lake City, Utah. Our community and children benefit every day from their kindness and dedication toward learning.

Coller Industries also donated metal name tags for the committee members to wear during the event. These laser engraved name tags are easy to use with magnetic fasteners.

How to Commit to Quality Using Name Tags

From customer service to team building, every business should commit to quality using name tags.

What does commit to quality mean?

COMMIT: to carry into action deliberately; pledge or bind (a person or an organization) to a certain course or policy.

QUALITY: the standard of something as measured against other things of a similar kind; the degree of excellence of something.

Why would a company need to commit to quality?

In most cases, businesses who do not have a commitment to quality fail. Yes, a company who doesn’t maintain quality in their service or goods can succeed. However, it is far more likely for a business to succeed when they focus and commit to quality.

Author of Out of the Crisis, W. Edwards Deming wrote, “Create constancy of purpose toward improvement of product and service, with the aim to become competitive, to stay in business and to provide jobs.”

The message to learn from this statement is that no matter the service or product, consistent quality must be your primary business focus. And with that knowledge, you can make sure that your business maintains quality throughout your production and practices.

Deming also wrote, “Cease dependence on inspection to achieve quality. Eliminate the need for massive inspection by building quality into the product in the first place.”

Constancy of purpose means that quality decisions are not situational. End of month quality is the same as the beginning of the month. It means that the long term benefit of the organization is not sacrificed to hit quarterly targets. It means having your eye on the competition, whether it is in your industry or coming from elsewhere, with plans to stay ahead.

When a company commits to quality, they must do so from day one. Once a specific quality standard is set, it must be upheld at all production stages and in all departments. And, communicating this standard of quality to your customers is an absolute must. Make sure that your customers understand that when you commit to quality that it isn’t just for your company, it’s for them!

How do name tags help with committing to quality?

To commit to quality is easier than you might think. For a lot of professions, appearance is a crucial factor in this quality. So, maintaining your commitment to quality is easy with a uniform and the proper name tag. Whether you choose a daily business attire like a suit and tie or a matching polo shirt for each of your employees, don’t forget that name tag.

Whether your job is in the food service industry or you are a CEO of a major corporation, showing professionalism by wearing a name tag is sure to make your job a bit easier. By attaching this simple item to your uniform or daily attire, you will stand out from all of your competitors. And, they make corporate branding a breeze by identifying employees at any business even easier.

From branding to color matching, name tags, like uniforms, help to symbolize your quality. Creating a positive influence with your brand means guaranteeing that all of the services and products of your business are consistent. Employees and customers know when that consistency is not present. So, make sure to choose name tags that reflect your brand’s commitment to quality. And once this is accomplished, showing that you commit to quality is easy.

Company name tags show you care about the quality of your brand. When employees wear name tags, they are more accountable for their actions as customers can comment on them by name. And branded name tags prove to customers that you pay attention to all details. So, when you commit to quality, it helps you gain public trust and grow your business.

Coller Industries commits to quality with every name tag!

For the past five years, Coller Industries has kept its error rate under 1%. In 2018, our overall error rate was 0.386%, which means that only 1 in about 260 orders contained an error. Considering that each product has up to 15 variables, we are proud of this accomplishment. It is thanks to our careful checking process and customer satisfaction guarantee that we can achieve this. And, because of our company procedures, each customer will walk away with a positive consumer experience and the identification products they need.

Investing in the proper tools also shows that you want to commit to quality. From name tags to lanyards and even custom ribbons, help your business branding with logos, colors and so much more!

The Three A’s of Professionalism

Appearance, accountability and ability all play into your business professionalism.

Name tags are essential for professionalism, from doctors to school teachers and everyone in between. Whether you work in the food service industry or are the CEO of a major corporation, showing professionalism by wearing a name tag will make your job easier. By attaching this simple item to your uniform or daily attire, you will stand out from all of your competitors. And they make corporate branding a breeze by identifying employees at a store even easier.

Here are some pointers on how name tags can help perfect your professionalism.

APPEARANCE

Maintaining a corporate uniform, whether certain colors or specific attire, is significant for many businesses. Adding a name tag to that uniform helps with your appearance and identifying where in the company you fit in. From a mail room attendant to the president of the company, not everyone will immediately know your name. But, by wearing a name tag as part of your uniform or daily attire, you encourage interaction and promote company branding.

Examples of adhesive name badges with handwritten names to show professionalism.

From color choices to adding text, a name tag is an important piece to add to your wardrobe. And, with so many colors and materials to choose from, finding that perfect name tag is easy. Logos and graphics are also an ideal way to promote your company from within and throughout each day as every employee interacts with clients, customers and the general public.

Remember that appearance is important in many professions. Maintaining professionalism is easy with the proper name tag.

ACCOUNTABILITY

It is always important to hold yourself accountable for your actions when working. Wearing a name tag will help you maintain that accountability and increase your professionalism. Name tags can also increase productivity because wearing identification tends to make someone more responsible and aware of their actions.

Whether in a difficult situation or merely representing the company at an event, name tags are sure to help keep employees accountable and maintain professionalism.

ABILITY

Professionalism is about focusing on finding a solution. And with a name tag, finding that focus has never been easier. By holding yourself accountable, you will develop the necessary job skills, keep up with time management and find any needed solutions for your company. These abilities are essential for keeping a strong work ethic and showing others you can be professional.

So, stay on task and show professionalism by wearing a name tag. By identifying yourself, you show others you know what you are doing and are proud of it. Let your name tag become part of who you are and help to maintain the image of a job well done.

CLASSIC NAME TAGS

LOGO NAME TAGS

PHOTO ID BADGES

A Conversation With A Name Badge

Have you ever talked with an inanimate object? Well, today, we’re sharing a recent conversation we had with a name badge!

We sat down over the long, holiday weekend with a Name Badge and asked several questions about how a name badge works and why they think their job is so important. Here are the top three questions from that interview.

Question 1: Describe Your Job

Reporter: I would like to start with a simple question, Name Badge. Please explain your job and what it is that you do on a daily basis.

Name Badge: Whoa! Slow down there! That’s a super detailed question, and it will take more than just a few minutes to answer. Are you sure you want to start with that one?

Reporter: Yes, I am sure.

Name Badge: Alright, glad you’re sitting down. So, here it goes. Although my job isn’t a simple one, it is reasonably easy to do. You see, the basic concept of my job is to let people know my name. But, here’s where it gets complicated. My name changes. My design changes. Sometimes I have color and sometimes I’m plain or even blank.

Reporter: That is a lot to take in, Name Badge. But I think you’re deviating from the question. What is your job?

Name Badge: First off, call me NB, it’s easier. In a nutshell, my job is to tell others who I am.

Reporter: That doesn’t sound too hard, NB. So, why do you think it’s so complicated?

NB: My job is complicated because of the many different ways people customize and use me.

Question 2: What Customizations Are Available?

NB: As I mentioned before, my design changes. Some people use their first name. Others use first and last names, while still others add titles, company names and sometimes even logos. And, I come in many different colors. I’m a chameleon that way. Oh, and sometimes people write on me.

Reporter: So, basically what you are telling me is that you have many faces? If that is the case, how do people know how to use you?

NB: Yes, I do have many faces. And sometimes that makes it a bit harder to use me. Although, to most people, using me is a natural thing; especially when those people work in stores or offices with tons of employees. Most know that I wear best on the right side of their shirt, but sometimes people put me in their pockets or place me where I’m hard to read. I do my job best when worn correctly.

Question 3: Finding Your Best Feature

Reporter: So, NB, if you’re appropriately worn and used correctly, what is your best feature?

NB: You like asking loaded questions, don’t you?

Reporter: What do you mean?

NB: Well, my best feature is the one the consumer likes the most. So, if they worked hard on their company’s branding, the logo would be my best feature. But, if the person wearing me needs others to know that they are a volunteer, then my title would be my best feature. Does that make sense?

Reporter: Yes, I suppose it does. So, your best feature is what others need it to be?

NB: Exactly!

Reporter: Wow! I’ve learned a lot from you today, NB. Thanks. I should probably be wearing a name badge, too!

The Best Features of Name Tags

What are name tag features and why are they so important? From security to basic identification, name tags are used for a variety of reasons. And, because of their distinguishing features, name tags are the perfect tool for everyone! They prove useful at meetings, conventions and in an office setting. No matter where you are, you’re sure to find a use for name tags.

And, here’s why!

Name Tag Features: Names, Titles and Pictures

The primary and most noticeable feature of a name tag is to display someone’s name. One of the most important things a name tag accomplishes is to identify the wearer. When a retail employee wears a name tag with a company name or logo visible on it, that name badge becomes a subtle form of advertising, and it reinforces that company’s brand into the minds of customers. Pictures also accomplish this same task.

Titles are also important, especially at a convention or large corporate meeting. Having a person’s title on a name tag is just as important as their name. This title defines the wearer and makes them more accessible to those looking for specific types of people at these large events.

By providing everyone at a conference or other event with identification, it reinforces their identities. And, this is indeed one of the essential features of a name tag.

Name Tag Features: Security and Branding

This fundamental feature isn’t just for use at a convention. Use name tags in offices and retail establishments for employees to recognize those who belong. As an example, if an employee is accustomed to seeing his or her fellow employees with name tags, an abnormality would be spotted easier. This is particularly true for a company that deals with sensitive information or products. Anyone that may be out of place would be immediately detected to help maintain the company’s security.

And, don’t forget branding! Leave your mark by adding a logo to all of the name tags in your office. Or, when creating name tags for a conference, add different company logos to each group’s name tags. Each company will appreciate this branding, and it also helps with continued recognition for each brand.

Relatability and Professionalism

Business name tags subtly encourage the wearer to maintain some professionalism. Sometimes it is easy for employees to forget where they are, but by adding a name badge or name tag, this is less likely to happen. While there is nothing wrong with having a casual working environment, a name tag will ensure a certain amount of professionalism.

The features of a name tag such as a name and company brand will also increase relatability for customers and clients. By wearing identification, employees immediately allow others to see who they are and thereby make themselves more approachable.

So, no matter your reason for wearing a name tag, remember these key features. And don’t forget to include them on all of your personal identification tools.