How to recognize

A recent national survey says you’ll remember the awards you’ve received at work more than events that seem important at the time, like receiving bonus money or significant regular events like family birthdays and anniversaries.

Why? Because recognition has power. When someone notices you for your good work, it feels great! And you may work even harder and focus your efforts on the right things.

Successful companies utilize the power of recognition to improve retention, open communication channels, and build relationships between management and employees. If done strategically, recognition will focus your employees’ commitment toward the things that matter most you your organization – your key business goals.

There is NOTHING more important that making the most of a recognition moment! Below you will find several different types of recognition, with tips on how to plan for and make the most of them

New Employee Orientation
• The best time to begin the formal recognition process is during the first few weeks on the job.
• A small award helps bond a new hire to an organization and helps retain the employee during the stressful training period.
• Simply plan a small gathering after one or two months at the person’s workplace to say, ”Welcome and we are glad you are here,” and perhaps present a small award.
Service Awards
• Career achievement awards are generally presented to employees every five years and are used by more than 90% of companies in North America.
• When done right-within the right recognition strategy and with the right presentations-length-of-service programs are a perfect opportunity to recognize every employee in the organization.
• There awards-earned in appreciation of dedicated years of service-can be enduring symbols of achievement when they feature your corporate identity.

Retirement Recognition
• A retirement award is a standard at most companies.
• Gone are the days of presenting a gold watch at retirement. today, most large and medium-sized companies offer a selection of items that allow employees to choose their award-from clocks to watches to grandfather clocks.
• A beautiful retirement award can be the capstone of a career-something that will be treasured for years to come.

Performance Recognition
• Performance recognition programs should be much more than a “thank you” for a job well done. When implemented strategically, they recognize performance and behaviors that support the company’s business goals.
• Employees or teams may be recognized by peers, other departments or a manager for actions that help achieve significant results.
• Recognition may come in form of a simple note of appreciation to a public ceremony and the presentation of a quality award.

Sales, safety, and other programs

• A comprehensive recognition strategy helps foster the commitment of your employees.
• Which programs you choose to implement will depend on the culture and goals of your organization.
• Remember, it’s always a good idea to present any type of award publicly. When colleagues see the presentation, it reinforces positive behaviors for which they can earn recognition.