Simple communication tools to connect, influence and recognise
Everyone knows the saying - it's the little things that count. Well there's no truer saying when it comes to communicating recognition. Peer to peer recognition is a great way to reinforce desired company behaviours, and a program can easily be aligned to your corporate values. In this area, low cost, simple tools can yield amazing results.
Often companies implement an overly structured and formal recognition program, without much space for individuality, freshness, or fun! Yet if staff and managers are not fully engaged in your program, it just won't work.
Be warned: the quarterly staff recognition awards or the length of service awards alone may not ignite an ongoing culture of recognition and engagement. It's the little things, every day, every week, that create a strong connection; managers showing simple forms of recognition to staff; staff being given the tools to show recognition to each other.
Here are a few small steps to consider:
1. Provide readymade e-card cards. They are quick and immediate, and there could be at least half a dozen versions to choose from.
2. Provide every staff member with pre-designed thank you cards. A little hand written note always hits the spot, especially when written on a card that communicates how the applauded work or action brings the company's values to life.
3. Give frequent, non financial recognition via verbal feedback and emails. In Gallop's famous engagement survey, question 4 is, "In the last seven days, have you received recognition or praise for doing good work?".
4. Socialise recognition. Make it public (unless it's not appropriate to do so). Share with staff examples of great performances and behaviours every week.
5. Give a small and personalised thank you gift when you want to show appreciation of the efforts of your direct reports.
6. Publically recognise those who recognise others. Promote a culture of recognition.
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