Giving recognition is another way of saying “We value what you’ve done.” In return, the recipient can say, “I’m appreciated! I like that you noticed.” And more than just feeling appreciated, the recipient of sincere and earned recognition is given encouragement that propels them forward for the tasks ahead and builds commitment. The ways in which people are recognized and rewarded have significant impact on the effectiveness of recognition. For example, day-to-day recognition phrases, such as “thank you” and “good job” are most meaningful when the positive feedback immediately follows an accomplishment. These encouraging terms can be reinforced by presenting the employee with a short personal note or with a gift, or symbolic award presented publically to a deserving individual or team, based on your organization’s rewards structure and employee’s preferences. Remember to be consistent when giving recognition and rewards – this will help to ensure equity in the workplace.

5 ways to build employee commitment through day-to-day recognition include:
1. Be straightforward - make a clear link between behavior and rewards;
2. Be personal - specifically call out their achievements and say it face to face;
3. Be fair – ensure goals are challenging but realistic and measurement is consistent across the organization. Also remember to ;
4. Be sincere – say it like you mean it;
5. Be timely – the sooner the better.

Most managers falsely assume it has to be big and expensive to get the point across. Keep it simple! The more an organization incorporates recognition into their culture, the more responsive employees are to the simple and sincere ways they are appreciated.

“People want to learn new things, to feel they’ve made a contribution – that they are doing worthwhile work. Few people are motivated only by money.” – Frances Hesselbein

http://www.sodexomotivation.com/blog/