Employee recognition has become a worthwhile investment. A 2015 report from employee recognition provider, Globoforce, indicated that 81% of companies now offer some type of formal recognition program. Recognition comes in many shapes and sizes and can vary depending on the individual, the situation, and the budget. But no matter what form recognition takes, it’s important that it’s thoughtful and valued by the recipient. Writing an employee recognition letter is an excellent way to show employees that time and effort were taken. It gives you the opportunity to specifically identify what goal was met or the hard work an individual or team put into a particular project or task. Writing an employee recognition letter can also be a substitute for instances when
- You don’t have budget for rewards
- You work in the public sector and can’t receive rewards
- You work for a private company with a strict gifting policy
So now that you’re convinced writing employee recognition letters is a good idea…what are you going to write? Clearly communicate your message so that the recipient knows:
- The behavior you are recognizing, that you want to encourage.
- The thank you message is clearly stated.
- This was recognized in a timely manner. Deliver the letter quickly after the desired behavior.
- The message is specifically for them. Make it personal.
Get out the pen and paper Handwritten, personalized notes go a long way in any walk of life. My grandmother taught me to always write thank you notes within two weeks of being given a gift or an experience. Make sure it’s fresh in people’s minds when you thank them. I think her advice applies here. Write thank you notes, employees will notice.
