Celebrating the spirit of America in the workplace.

Everyone has heard the famous maxim, "Never discuss religion or politics in polite company." While these perennially hot topics can create awkward or uncomfortable discussions and situations in the workplace, patriotic spirit has its place in every organization.

By incorporating the universal symbols and time-tested ideas on which America was founded, you can maintain a unified team-oriented atmosphere and foster a sense of patriotic pride at the same time.

"I like to see a man proud of the place in which he lives. I like to see a man live so that his place will be proud of him."
Abraham Lincoln

With the Fourth of July just days away, consider integrating these simple patriotic touches into your organization's culture.

Display the flag. Install a traditional flagpole outside the entrance of your office building. If your offices are situated inside a shared facility, a floor-stand flagpole provides an effective alternative to an outdoor display. If floor space is an issue, a desktop flag stand with an appropriately sized flag makes an ideal addition to any reception desk. Regardless of where you display it, the flag is a positive symbol that will inspire members of your team, customers and other visitors throughout the day and serve as a constant reminder of your national pride.

For a brief list of basic guidelines for displaying your flag visit the United States Department of Veteran Affairs website.

Observe Presidents Day, Memorial Day or Flag Day with a company-wide "American IQ" quiz. Award the top scorers with their own desktop flag set, a book featuring inspiring quotes from the country's great leaders and a FREE-dom Lunch. Include an apple pie and tickets to a baseball game for the Grand Prize Winner.

While questions for your quiz are easy to find on the web, here are a few ideas to get you started.

- Who originally drafted the Declaration of Independence?
     Answer: Thomas Jefferson
- The 50th star on the American flag was added in 1960 to represent which state?
     Answer: Hawaii
- What is the meaning of the Latin phrase, "E Pluribus Unum," one of the national mottos of the United States?
     Answer: Out of many, one

Dedicate wall space to Americana reflecting the history or beauty of the nation. Display a current or vintage map of the country in a conference room. Hang a copy of the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence in your boardroom or executive offices. Decorate the reception area or lunch room with framed photographic prints and art showcasing the varied landscape of unique American locales.

"Out of Many, One"

Unity is the core of every great team. By reinforcing the common beliefs and classic symbols of America's heritage you can strengthen your team's spirit and build a strong sense of national pride into your corporate culture.