Recognition – It’s a Powerful Tool!
How do you get the most out of it?
Companies that have an employee recognition program in place have demonstrated that they know how powerful recognition can be as a leadership tool. It makes a statement to the employees about what is important to the business and what is valued by the leaders within the company. It is also one of the most effective ways to reinforce an organizations culture, support its objectives and retain top performers.
An effective recognition program achieves the following:
· Builds self-esteem
· Reinforces desired behaviors
· Helps create an atmosphere of appreciation and trust
· Promotes empowerment and involvement
· Creates loyalty to a company
While recognition is important, the way you choose to recognize an associate plays a key role in the overall success of your program as well.
PREPARING FOR THE MAGIC MOMENT
It’s easy to create a meaningful and memorable event for you and the individual being recognized. You can make the occasion special by following these few simple steps:
· Choose a location for the presentation
· Decide who will be present
· Prepare what you will say
Where will the Presentation take place?
Whether you are planning a formal or more casual presentation, the event is important and can be a powerful management tool toward developing increased commitment to the company’s vision and core values. You can recognize an associate at his or her work place, or, if desired, in a more formal setting such as a banquet hall. Whatever the setting, remember that this should be a special event for the associate and their peer group.
Who should be present?
Imagine training for long hours for a big race and then winning first place, only you aren’t allowed to tell anyone about your victory. Our achievements in life, no matter how small, are more meaningful to us when we share them with others. Keep this in mind when deciding who will be at the presentation. The event will have much more impact if the associate is recognized in front of his/her peers (and senior management and additional guests if a more formal presentation is planned). This generates excitement for others to also strive for the high goals of achievement and recognition.
What will the presenter say?
The most important thing to remember is that the presentation should be personal. Consider the following when preparing what you will say:
- Address the associate by name
- Research important information including years of service, accomplishments and contributions prior to the presentation
- Share a work related short story or anecdote if appropriate. However, avoid embarrassing jokes or other comments that may make the associate uncomfortable
- Communicate that it is an honor for you to have the opportunity to recognize him or her
- Congratulate the associate, say “thank you” and shake his or her hand.
Remember to make the presentation upbeat, fun and to the point. Your preparation will help make the event a memorable Magic Moment for all.
