Great Ways to Improve Your Employee Recognition

We are often asked by clients for different ways to improve employee recognition, or to kick it up a notch.

While many of the following ideas may seem obvious to some, you might be surprised how rarely we find them in use. 

Write Out in a Formal Letter

Write the letter on company letterhead; tell the employee what they did, how their actions impacted the company and other employees. Send it to the employee, give a copy to the department head and CEO, place a copy in the file.  If suitable, publish it in a company form of communication. 

Write a Personal Note

Write it out long hand on some nice personal note paper, (print legibly if handwriting not suitable) do not send an email. You might also want to have a manager co-sign it. Photocopy the note and place the recognition in the employee’s file.

Accompany the verbal recognition with Recognition Item

Engraved plaques, merchandise that carries the company logo, even certificates of appreciation reinforce recognition.

Everyone Likes Gift Cards

Accompany the letter or note with a token or diminimous gift card.  They are enjoyed by everyone, and can be shared with the family.

Present the Recognition Publicly.

Even if the employee is uncomfortable with publicity, it is important for the other employees to know that employees are receiving recognition.

Encourage Peer to Peer Recognition

Set up a simple system to allow and encourage employees to recognize employees in their department and in cross functional departments. Consider implementing a budget allowing each employee an amount they can give annually.  Using gift cards is the easiest way to make this work.

A Simple “Thank You” Counts

A simple “thank you” counts as employee recognition. It’s quick, easy to do, and can go a long way, and helps to create a positive environment.  You cannot use recognition up. You cannot run out of recognition.

No budget is too small to afford employee recognition. If you want increased employee satisfaction and engagement, bring on lots of employee recognition. You'll be happy that you did.

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