Recognition at Work: Why You Should Reward Your Employees

Is recognition at work that important to employee performance?

One survey showed that employees, especially those under age 30 crave feedback. In fact, most of the respondents answered that they would like feedback on a daily or weekly basis.

The reason is obvious. Positive or negative feedback helps an employee do his or her job better. Of course, most would prefer positive reinforcement. 69% of the respondents said recognition motivates them to work harder.

But that's not all. Here are 2 other benefits of employee recognition.

1. Promotes Loyalty

Think back to when you were in school. Was there ever a time you worked on a project so hard? Did the teacher praise your work in front of the class or was your hard work ignored?

If it's the latter, for sure you felt somewhat bad. This applies to the workplace as well. You can't expect your employees to just be happy that they have jobs.

They have to know that they're doing great and there's appreciation for their efforts. Some companies don't think it's a big deal. But not enough recognition could be a factor why an employee would think of leaving the company.

They have to know that they're doing great and there's appreciation for their efforts. Some companies don't think it's a big deal. But not enough recognition could be a factor why an employee would think of leaving the company.

2. Helps Revenue

Who do you think performs better? Employees who don't get feedback? Or those who know they're doing great and continue to improve?

Of course, it's the latter. Engaged employees will always outperform those who are apathetic about their employers. And high engagement translates to higher profitability for the company.

Ways to Recognize Your Employees

Knowing you need to recognize your employees for their hard work is easier said than done. You have to have a plan or at least know where to start. That said, here are some easy ways to put employee recognition in place

Keeping It Simple

We talked about simple, yet effective employee recognition ideas in a previous post. We mentioned how getting personal is important. Remember, your employees need to feel that you acknowledge their life outside of work.

So if you know an employee who just had a baby, don't forget to send them an email. Tell Dave from accounting that you heard about his weight loss goals. And that you will do what you can to offer support.

Getting Creative

If you have the simple gestures thing down, then it's time to get creative. Employee recognition doesn't always have to mean gifts or cash bonuses.

You can give out awards such as Miss or Mister Congeniality. Or a Lifetime Achievement Award for employees who are retiring.

Be creative. Think fun. Your employees will appreciate the effort you've put into making them feel like stars.

Special Awards

Everyone in your office knows the importance of recognition. But not every employee will go the extra mile. So if you have employees who do their best to stand out, you must give them the recognition they deserve.

Who are these employees?

These could be workers who dedicate their free time to excel at their jobs. They could be giving up precious time with their loved ones to help the company achieve its targets.

It could be those employees who came up with creative solutions and dared to be innovative. Or it could be a whole department who manage to exceed their targets month after month, year after year.

Bottomline: Recognition at Work Is a Must

Whether your style is to keep things simple or to give out special awards, one thing's for sure. Recognition at work is a must.

Recognized employees work harder. And when they work harder, it has a direct effect on your bottom line.

Need more tips on improving employee satisfaction? Don't forget to browse our blog!