How to create a culture of recognition?
While many believe that salary matters most, one of the main factors making the job attractive is the atmosphere. The attitude employees have towards their jobs results in their willingness to work. That is why it is of high significance to create a culture of recognition that improves the effectiveness of the employees.
What is employee recognition?
Employee recognition simply means that the values, efforts, and successes are appreciated by the employer. Each of the employers should take this into consideration as working is not only about the mechanical fulfillment of professional duties. When people feel valued as humans they are more willing to cooperate and their level of productivity increases. Positive company culture is based on gratitude, appreciation, and trust, which in turn improve the engagement of employees.
What is the culture of recognition?
A culture of recognition is focused on the appreciation of employees’ actions that fit into the company’s values and bring benefits to the teams and the whole organization. There are many inspiring ways to express gratitude but it all starts with a simple thank you. It is very important to create a culture of recognition as it influences positively all of the company – the employee may be appreciated not only by their manager but also by colleagues or individually. This way a friendly atmosphere is established and people are automatically more willing to work.
Why is it worth implementing a culture of recognition?
- Increased engagement
Employees who know that their values are recognized feel more contended about what they do and are more willing to carry out their professional duties as they want to prove that they are worth all of the appreciation they obtained.
- Sense of purpose is constantly growing
A culture of recognition gives the employees a sense of meaning. Through the appreciation of their actions, the employer may show them that their work is highly valued and they are an important part of the company. As a result, their morale are boosted and satisfaction instantly increases.
- Culture of recognition equals a friendly atmosphere
Building positive relationships between employees is essential for a well-functioning company. If employees feel good about each other and there is a culture of recognition between them, they have a friendly attitude towards each other and their cooperation is much better.
- Recognition is the key to effectiveness
A satisfied employee is a productive employee. If an employee feels that his or her actions are appreciated, the motivation is greater, and thus productivity goes up.
How to implement a culture of recognition?
- Acknowledge milestones
The big moments that happen to the employees have to be celebrated. The employer should never forget about this as it is a chance to show that they truly care about employees. Coworkers have an opportunity to rally around each other and they create bonds of unity. Acknowledgment of milestones such as promotion or a new certification is a great sign of appreciation.
- Recognize employees at meetings for their actions
Recognition of employees’ values in front of their coworkers is also very important regarding the culture of recognition. This way employers can find out about the successes of others, celebrate their achievements, and learn from their experiences.
- Proper tools add to the culture of recognition
The introduction of tools such as Enterprise Social Network with kudos options and gamification is also a good idea. The employees may communicate with each other and exchange their information and experience along with recognition.
- Promote openness to feedback
When employees know that they can express their own opinions, they feel safe. They are aware that their beliefs are important. The employer should encourage openness, which will ensure that employees will not be reluctant to give an honest judgment and that their feedback will be real.
Endless advantages
A culture of recognition is nowadays a key element of employee satisfaction. It is worth remembering because if the atmosphere is positive, then the employees are more willing to work and their productivity automatically increases. Gratitude costs nothing but it may change everything.