Please read my disclosure policy to understand how I work with companies and individuals. Linking to a specific site does not imply endorsement of all of their services or content.

I don’t care who you are or how long you’ve been working for a company. I don’t care what your role is, how much money you make, when you last got a raise…it is undeniable. Recognizing employees for their unique contributions within your company is just as important, if not even more important, in this culture inundated with a need for significance.

We live in a society where it is more challenging than ever to get noticed and stand out. We want to be known for making unique contributions, and we want to feel a part of the team. Team building is something for which most organizations strive as they participate in exercises and even weekend conferences where they participate in activities intended to make people feel like they are a part of the team.

All too often, however, these experiences don’t work as they are intended to. There are the leaders and the followers, and unless there is some kind of incentive, those followers will remain quiet and follow along instead of putting themselves out there. It’s too much of a risk. And after all, if there is no natural program in place to recognize employees for their contributions, why step out of their comfort zone and try something new.

To create a workplace environment where everyone feels valued and necessary, it is up to those in charge to develop employee recognition programs. While it doesn’t have to be some kind of formal program where edco awards plaques are awarded to every employee at a particular time every year or quarter, it can undoubtedly boost morale to have some kind of tangible award such as that to recognize the unique contributions of those employees who have gone over and above what is expected.

In addition to physical awards such as this, there are various other ways to recognize each employee’s unique contributions to the company regularly. To increase the level of engagement in your company or business, it might be a good idea to give a few of the following ideas a try.

1. Say thank you and say it often.
2. Give sincere compliments.
3. Send old-fashioned “thank-you” cards.
4. Have regular “town hall” meetings within the company.
5. Create award certificates for a wide variety of accomplishments.
6. Award extended breaks and/or early finishes/late starts.
7. Host a staff luncheon in-house or at a local restaurant.
8. Ask how your employees would like to be recognized and use some of their ideas.
9. Provide mentors and/or leadership training opportunities.
10. Recognize their birthday and/or special days in a tangible way.
11. Donate to a charity of their choice in their honor.
12. Share positive feedback with everyone in the company in an organized fashion.

These are just a beginning point, but the key is to make employee recognition a necessity and a priority. It is not a requirement to spend a lot of money recognizing these special workers in your business, but at least take the time to do something to show your appreciation. It will foster a sense of community and loyalty like nothing else.

Spread the love

Tweet