Some people think they’ll never be rewarded for their hard work. Others think the powers that be will never notice if they’re cutting corners.

A handful of people found out just the opposite recently, when Dina Dwyer-Owens, CEO of The Dwyer Group, went under cover and spent some time working for a few of her company’s franchises. The Dwyer Group’s franchise brands include Mr. Rooter, Mr. Electric, Mr. Appliance, The Grounds Guys, Aire Serv, Rainbow International and Glass Doctor.

Dwyer-Owens, disguised and using the name Faith Brown, spent four days working at four separate franchises with the help of CBS’ “Undercover Boss.” People at the franchises were told Brown was a cast member on a new reality TV show, “Keep Your Day Job,” where participants get the opportunity to try out a new profession.

Along the way, while working as a trainee in the plumbing, electrical, appliance repair and grounds maintenance fields, the perceptive and responsive – if not mechanically inclined – Brown got a close-up look at the way a small handful of franchises and their employees were carrying out their day-to-day business.

Less sting operation than evaluation of how to improve business and employee satisfaction, the undercover mission raised a couple red flags but ultimately highlighted the quality of work, professionalism and dedication among employees.

The episode aired Sunday, Jan. 22. If you were busy or had your TV tuned to the NFC Championship battle between the New York Giants and San Francisco 49ers, don’t worry. Clips and the full episode can still be viewed at www.cbs.com/shows/undercover_boss/.

Check it out when you have the time.