How many times a day do you say thank you? And when you say it, are you just replying to someone as a robotic response or do you mean it with genuine sincerity? Who actually deserves a thank you; the barista at Starbucks or the gas station attendant? Why do we find it so simple to say thank you to complete strangers, but find it difficult to praise or recognize those we encounter daily, you know who I’m talking about; our own employees? Employee recognition is not only beneficial, but can be given all year long.
For many of us, we use our manners – say please and thank you because we want to receive something in return. We are not rude to our waiters/waitresses, for fear they may do something to our meal before they serve it to us. In our everyday life, we recognize the power of being kind, and appreciate those who assist us, knowing it will lead to greater benefits. The same approach should be taken with our work life; recognizing the value of our employees and what positive contributions they have brought to the success of the organization will no doubt, lead to much more success and growth.
It’s important for companies to incorporate an employee incentive program to show how grateful we are for our employees. As the season of giving approaches, this seems all too simple. But how do we make it last all year? How do we give thanks and motivate our employees to stay productive and engaged in April or August, just as we may dote on them in November and December?
Truly making employee recognition a part of your everyday culture will empower employees and give them a sense purpose within the organization. In turn, workplace morale and positive attitudes from employees will radiate, all year round. According to the Trends in Employee Recognition survey, 88% of organizations have recognition programs and average of 4 different programs.
With the top five recognition programs in 2013 being:
- Length of service (84%)
- Above-and-beyond performance (75%)
- Peer-to-peer (42%)
- Programs to motivate specific behavior (41%) up 7% over 2011 survey results
- Retirement (34%)
With programs such as Peer-to-peer and those focusing on motivating specific behavior, maintaining employee recognition throughout the year can be easily achieved and company culture and morale will stay just as jolly in random months like April and August just as it would during the holiday season of giving.
So as we begin to give thanks to our employees who have helped us achieve a successful 2013, let us not forget how quickly 2014 is approaching. Implementing a recognition program that provides the employees with incentives and quality goals to achieve, will be sure to provide the success and growth all managers strive to deliver.
Let Awards Network help you achieve the results you want; we view employee recognition programs as a company investment rather than an expense, both with employee morale and positive company growth. Not only does Awards Network completely run your employee recognition program, but our team of experts can cater to your specific needs with safety awards programs, wellness programs, years of service awards, and the list goes on and on. Gobble up the goodness this season, and prepare to make 2014 the year of thanks!
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