Employee Recognition and Rewards

There are many ways to recognise and reward an employee. Traditionally, employee recognition entails the giving of appreciation cards to employees, or the awarding of certificates, or the giving of branded items such as lapels, watches, or vouchers. But in a twenty-first century workplace, employee recognition has come to mean more. Employee recognition is a public acknowledgment of people within an organisation.

It highlights their role and what they have done to merit appreciation. Employee recognition (ER) is an inclusive, people-appreciation method that spurs employees towards productivity, commitment, and workplace dedication. It is a message saying, “We see what you are doing, we think you are awesome at it, and we appreciate you for it.” At its core, ER is a statement of positive feedback. It assures the employee that they are on the right path, their work ethic is valued, and their contributions are not ignored. It does not benefit the recipient alone.

Companies who engage in ER believe that sustaining a culture of recognising and rewarding employees adds the following to the organisation:

• Strengthening of teamwork.
• Fosters excellence at work.
• Facilitates a positive workplace atmosphere.
• Nurtures trust.

Many managers and companies desire to practice ER. However, they struggle to comprehend the strategies involved in effective employee recognition and reward. No employee would appreciate a gift that comes from a snobby boss. Imagine an appreciation certificate in the email of an employee who has just been scolded by his team. Thus, the ER that works, the kind that retains employees in an organisation, is a subject of principles.

How do you get it right? How do you ascertain the gesture is rightly received? Below, we share some ideas that would inspire your next attempt to recognize an employee:

1. Say Thanks Often. A simple thanks are unarguably the easiest way to show gratitude. Generally, we tend to ignore the power of “thank you”, and even managers are not exempt. Rather than anticipate a grand occasion where you’d commend an effort or express your appreciation, simply say thank you. You may struggle with it for the first few attempts, but it would become a part of you as you make a habit of it.

2. Compliment Efforts. Compliments let an individual know how you feel about their actions. For instance, if you observe an employee never misses a meeting, let them know. “You are always punctual to meetings, I like that.” With this, you encourage sustained positive behaviour at work. The catch is that these compliments should rebound from efforts. Make it a tradition, not a routine.

3. Team Treats. Who doesn’t fancy a good meal after a week of exhaustive work? Especially when they don’t have to foot the bill? Meals are perfect for communicating gratitude. Invite select employees to dinner (not at your place, please, except your culinary skills are exceptional).

Have casual conversations about work, family, and anything that interests them. Slip in little positive feedbacks, and watch them blush with gladness. Some other suggestions involve:

• Sending “Thank You” Cards.
• Extending Vacations.
• Awarding Certificates.

Bonuses What matters is that you find the perfect gesture for the deserving employee. When you do, you can trust your employees to work with renewed determination and commitment. The power of recognition and reward should never be underestimated.