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A Carrot a Day. A Daily Dose of Recognition for Your Employees Authors: Gostick A., Elton Ch. Published year: 2003 Pages: 50-55/371 |
“I like it, I love it, I want some more of it!”
—Tim McGraw, country music star
Recognition is like potato chips. Bet you can’t stop at just one. In fact, recognition can be so addicting, at times we’ve wondered if it should come with a warning from the surgeon general. (Warning: Recognition can be extremely beneficial to your organization’s health. You may not be able to make yourself quit.)
But, then, why would you want to?
Recognition builds confidence. It fans the fire of achievement, and gives people the courage to try (“After all, I did it once. Why not again?”)
You’ve felt it before. When we are complimented for our efforts and good work, we gain momentum. We gain the power to overcome obstacles and problems because we know people support and believe in us.
“Take the time today to send flowers and a card to someone you love.”
—FTD
Yes, it’s a commercial, but what a great point.
Business aside, when is the last time you recognized the most important people in your life?
Don’t miss this chance to tell the people closest to you that you love them. No one can hear it enough and it never gets old. It will make whoever gets the roses feel great—and you won’t feel so bad yourself.
Management Etiquette Rule No. 1:
This is a case when name-calling is actually good.
Use employees’ names whenever possible—when you recognize them, when you praise them, even when you greet them in the morning. Calling people by name is one of the most basic forms of recognition. It shows you recognize them not only as employees but as individuals.
And no, “Hey good looking,” just doesn’t qualify. And “Nice work, Sparky” is completely out.
Lights! Camera! Recognition!
Give your star performer the star treatment by using him in a training film, internal video or commercial. When the project is finished, award him his own copy, along with a thank-you note. He’ll love it … if you can just coax him out of his trailer.
The Dirty Dozen of Why We Don’t
EXCUSE NO. 2
Yeah, and if you cross your eyes too long, they’ll stay that way When was the last time anyone at work said, “Man, this place gives too much recognition!” Our guess is, let’s see … NEVER!
And by the way, it doesn’t ever get old if you really mean it. Does anyone ever tire of someone saying you matter and you are important? So don’t worry; just keep doing it.
Don’t underestimate the value of applause.
Do you remember the times in your life when you were applauded? Most of us do.
At one fast-food chain, if an employee is working hard and feeling a little overwhelmed or under-appreciated, she can ask for a standing ovation at any time. Everyone in the restaurant—including customers—gives the person applause.
Gather your employees now and then for a standing ovation of one of your people. Explain the great things the person has done, and then start the applause. Dabbing the corners of teary eyes is optional.
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A Carrot a Day. A Daily Dose of Recognition for Your Employees Authors: Gostick A., Elton Ch. Published year: 2003 Pages: 50-55/371 |