I wanted to provide some insights on how managers can inject humor and positivity into an employee award program. Particularly in light of the uncertain economy that we are experiencing, coupling humor and positivity with employee recognition can prove to be a powerful solution to increase workplace morale and employee motivation, health and wellness.
The author of PsyBlog, an excellent blog on human psychology, listed a few different ways to improve mood, raise energy and reduce tension in your personal life and I think this list could also easily apply to theworkplace recognition or incentive program.
Exercise: Employee health and wellness goals are increasingly becoming a part of an overall employee award program. One of my clients arranges coordinated lunch walks where coworkers opt in to participate for a half hour walk around the area. In exchange, when an employee completes so many of these walks, they are given a personalized award package and the recognition award of their choice.
Social Interaction: Organizing a company pot luck or annual employee recognition ceremony is an excellent way to allow coworkers to learn more about each other and interact outside the workplace. Most of my clients have commented after an award ceremony that they felt the event provided a boost to employee morale. Many have observed a noticeable change in the atmosphere of the workplace in the weeks following such an event.
Pep Talks: To increase the energy and productivity of employees, many managers give pep talks or schedule meetings to provide advice and motivation to workers. Pep talks are a great opportunity for managers to present employee recognition awards to individuals who have reached milestone anniversaries. Also, some of my clients will use these gatherings to present employee of the month awards, peer to peer award winners, etc.
Distractions: Although workplace distractions should be kept at a minimum, tasteful emails sent to coworkers every once in a while can provide a much needed chuckle to fellow workers. One of my coworkers likes to thank team members by recognizing a job well done with a personalized email and including a funny piece of clip art.
Avery Henderson, author of the article Positive Humor and Creativity Belongs in the Workplace, advises, “There are many stressors currently facing employees during this time of depressed economy. Relieving stress is a key to keeping employee performance and productivity at a premium!”
By using the tips above, you can inject positivity and humor into an employee award program and boost your results. Especially when bad news about the economy is wearing down consumers and employees, a little humor in the workplace can go a long way.
Leave a Comment