Recognition is part of who we are. From a very early age,

we crave recognition from parents, teachers and friends.

So strong is our desire for positive affirmation,

particularly during developmental periods, that we can

even perceive a neutral reaction as a negative one.

1 Give Shout-Outs: Knowing you did a good job is one thing, but hearing it

from your boss or the president of the company is even better.

2 Offer fun projects or professional/personal development opportunities:

There are always going to be some projects that everyone wants to do—

but unfortunately, not everyone will be able to take them on. If you’re

having a hard time deciding who should get these fun projects, try

distributing them out as a form of recognition.

Tips for recognizing employees:

Take them to lunch: Who doesn’t like a free lunch? Besides showing you

care, you’ll be giving them some one-on-one time they don’t typically get

—a great chance to talk shop or get to know each other a little better.

3 Take them to lunch: Who doesn’t like a free lunch? Besides showing you
care, you’ll be giving them some one-on-one time they don’t typically get
—a great chance to talk shop or get to know each other a little better. 

4 Distribute non-cash rewards: Consider giving a gift card to a coffee

shop, scratch tickets, movie tickets, or other universally-appreciated gifts

that will let them know you appreciate them, while giving them a reason

to have some fun.

5 Loosen the reins: If everyone has been doing a great job lately, loosen up

a bit. Test out some casual dress days, or take things a step further and

offer some flexible work options.

6 Throw a competition, party, or potluck: Appreciation doesn’t have to

mean direct praise—it can be a fun break from the norm as well.

Consider throwing a baking or chili-making competition—something

that will allow your team to show off their hidden talents.

7 Encourage peer-to-peer recognition: Recognition is great coming from a

manager or the executive level, but it’s also appreciated when it comes

from peers. Get everyone involved with the recognition process, and give

your team, ample opportunity and encouragement to recognize one

another.

8 Just say thank you!: It’s a simple gesture, but a powerful one.

Communicate with your employees. Let them know when they’ve done a

great job, and give thanks for their hard work. According to a survey

from RewardGetaway done on 1,500 employees, up to 75% of the

employees agreed a simple “thank you” on good work done will increase

their morale and make the employees feel more motivated.

Chris Gray, PhD

Principal Consultant