Valuable Employee Recognition Tips
Employee recognition is one of the most under-utilized business assets. Humans are social creatures with an innate desire to form quality connections that make us feel good about ourselves and our contributions to the world. We all know work can be hectic from time to time, but showing genuine appreciation for your employees can help off-set the pressure felt from long hours, tight deadlines and high expectations. In fact, studies have shown that employee recognition can lead to increased motivation, higher productivity, more collaboration, deeper involvement in the company, and lower turn-over rates.
Wondering how to reward employees for a job well done? Having a closet full of recognition gifts for employees goes a long way in making annual meetings or seasonal kick-off events feel special for large groups. But what are you doing to reward your employees on a more immediate schedule? Monetary rewards and promotions are great, but they aren’t the only way to make your employees feel appreciated. If you really want to make a powerful impact, find ways to make employee recognition more human. Here are few ideas to help get you started.
Create a positive feedback culture
Formal employee recognition programs definitely serve a purpose, but keep in mind that employee recognition doesn’t always have to come in the form of grand gestures. Spontaneous feedback feels more sincere and can have a greater impact on your employees. When you consistently give in-the-moment positive feedback, you cultivate a supportive environment that feels inclusive and encourages collaboration.
Make shout-outs part of your meeting agenda
Of course employees feel great when their efforts are noticed by their leadership team, but it’s also nice for them to be celebrated by their peers. At the start of your regular team meetings, open the floor for employees to give shout-outs to their peers and leaders for a job well done. Not only is this type of feedback timely and authentic, it empowers your employees to celebrate each other. This creates a workplace culture where employees are accountable to each other and are committed to doing great work for the success of the team as a whole, not just to impress the boss.
Be specific with your employee recognition
When you are recognizing an employee, it’s crucial to give praise for specific behavior. Not only does it make the recognition more meaningful, it also lets the employee know what behavior they should do more of. Here are some examples of positive opening statements:
- I’m impressed with…
- You really make a difference by…
- You set a great example for the team when you…
- You should be really proud of yourself for…
Put it in writing
No matter what kind of recognition you give to an employee, it’s easy for them to forget as time passes. If you take the time to put praise in writing, employees can look back on their achievements whenever they need a little pick-me-up and remember that their contribution is valued and appreciated. A printed letter arriving in an envelope to their home is a nice gesture, but so is a well-timed email both leader and employee can save for a future review.
Provide opportunities for job growth
One of the best forms of recognition is providing an employee with opportunities outside of his or her normal, day-to-day job requirements. This can take on many different forms, from cross-training to special projects or committees. Providing a new opportunity shows the employee that you notice his or her talents. It also changes up their routine and helps prevent boredom.
Don’t miss work anniversaries
Studies have shown that upcoming generations move around more in their careers. Reward employees for staying by recognizing the anniversary of their hire every year. It’s a great opportunity to thank them for their contribution to your team and the success of the business as a whole. Instead of a recognition plaque, consider an embroidered polo or embroidered work clothing with the number of years or achievement level reached. The gift is a comfortable, wearable reminder of their status.
Consistent employee recognition helps to build a positive work environment and strengthens the relationship between employees and their company. Using the strategies above, you can create a culture of appreciation that benefits both your employees and your business.