Unique, Diverse Employee Recognition

How often do we settle in the same mundane routine, just because it is “easy”? Why do we employees dwell in mediocrity, just because that’s all “they” expect so that’s all “they” are going to get?! Have employees lost the drive to contribute their best to employers; lost the determination to meet, even exceed, personal and team goals; lost the dedication to perfection? Sure, it’s a balancing act between juggling priorities and hours in the day. On the other hand, I’m convinced that there must be a way to reignite the passion and extinguish apathy with the right formula. Now what is that formula…

Does work ethic only stem from employees? Of course not! Job fulfillment, workplace culture, and employee engagement place their roots deeply in company structure and management. There is another part to this sticky equation: the employer. Yes, a company is an employer, but in the mind of an employee, the boss/manager/supervisor is the face of the otherwise intangible enigma. The formula gets even more interesting when you consider the generational differences in work values and attitudes; baby boomers, in general, have vastly different perspectives than Gen Y or Gen X when it comes to job satisfaction, job meaning, and stress levels.

I recently read a fantastic article by Meghan Biro on Forbes about ways to “fuse fun and work”. She explored the endless possibilities of personalized recognition and unorthodox events in the workplace to breathe life into an otherwise drab setup. Adding a little spice to the office can certainly improve the flavor, but keep in mind that your workplace consists of diverse, unique components! Assess the diversity in your workplace before implementing your “fun” activities. But what about the other days of the year when the company needs morale boosts and on-going employee recognition? How can there be diverse employee recognition to match an individual company’s needs – aren’t those incentive programs standardized and “cookie cutter”?

Managing different generations, different cultures, and different viewpoints in one workplace may seem to be a daunting task. However, with an attitude of openness in your organization, employees will feel encouraged and invigorated to express their ideas and contribute their fortes to the team. The benefits of nurtured diversity are profound. A diverse and inclusive workforce helps businesses avoid employee turnover costs; a diverse workforce can capture a greater share of the consumer market; diversity fosters a more creative and innovative workforce. The list of returns on investing in diversity grows daily as research exposes the facts.

We are still faced with the problem of apathy in the workplace. Before addressing a lack of work, we realize that workplaces are unique, are likely stuck in a rut, and are composed of distinct characters. So how do we confront this obstacle when, clearly, the solution will be case-by-case? In my experience of building custom and diverse employee recognition programs with Awards Network, I have learned this: no matter the industry, the geographic location, the demographic composition of the workforce, or the goals behind the award program (safety, health and wellness, years of service, sales, etc.), all employees crave recognition. All employees crave individual recognition for their contributions. Whether it be a simple eCard from a coworker or a milestone anniversary gift, Awards Network has employee recognition programs to help!

While there may not be a general formula that solves the dilemma of engaging employees and improving work ethic, there are several solutions to any unique situation. Is your company looking for a team of experts in diverse employee recognition and employee awards? Would you like to consult with people passionate about taking your company to the next level, starting with improving company culture? Are you busy and just want help managing a safety award program, health and wellness program, points-based program, or any other variation of an employee incentive program? Look no further than Awards Network for designing and implementing a worry-free plan to address your distinct needs with our exceptional, diverse offerings of products and services. We appreciate your toughest challenge if you’re willing to expect nothing but our best!