For many organizations employee recognition and financial rewards are tied at the hip. It makes sense- rewards promote the desired behavior and only incur a fixed predictable cost to the employer. Rewards are proven effective and continue to be so, but the lasting value of that reward goes a lot farther with an employee if it is paired with true recognition of the accomplishment that earned them the reward. The compliment from their manager means as much or more than the reward it is paired with, and the recognition can often get lost in the day-to-day craziness of the workplace. Here are 3 quick and easy ways to ensure that you pair the proper employee recognition with your rewards to make them happier and more satisfied with their position and their organization. 1)
Be timely: If you notice an employee making an exceptional effort or going beyond their job responsibilities- act immediately. A simple compliment, or a quick email in the moment shows the employee that their organization is always taking notice of their efforts. This makes them feel good whole also promoting positive behavior for the future. 2)
Be authentic: When recognizing an employee’s good work or extra effort, mean what you say and back up what you do. If you recognize them publicly in front of their peers make sure you recognize their individual accomplishment. Don't give a generic motivational speech, instead speak specifically to what
they did. Giving formulaic recognition will have an adverse effect where employees race to certain benchmarks because they know a reward is waiting for them, which is much less effective long term. 3)
Add employee based value: Recognize employees by adding value measured in their terms. When providing rewards, gift cards are a great way to add individual value by presenting employees with a choice of how they want to receive and use their reward, without adding organizational cost. Being able to help a working mom out with dinner by providing a
Boston Market gift card, and helping that junior associate right out of college buy his first apartment enhancement with a
Crutchfield gift card, or helping that employee who you know has a long commute every day with a
Speedway gas gift certificate, adds a personal touch that will be memorable and more valuable to employees. Employee rewards work- but they must be paired with proper employee recognition, otherwise the meaning is lost. Adding value and meaning to employee recognition will have a long lasting effect on their loyalty, productivity, and happiness.
For more information on how to recognize your employees check out this article from Forbes.
