Importance of employee appreciation

We frequently use the terms “recognition” or “appreciation” in the same way, however there’s a huge distinction between the two. The former refers to providing positive feedback based on the performance or results. The latter, on other side is about acknowledging the person’s natural…

Appreciation and recognition. We frequently use the words interchangeably and consider them as a similar thing. However, while both are important but there’s a significant distinction between them. For those who wish to see their teams flourish and companies that wish to build cultures of loyalty, engagement, and performance, it’s crucial to know the difference.

Recognition is the process of providing positive feedback based on outcomes or performance. Sometimes, this is done in a formal manner like an award, bonus, increase, or promotion. Sometimes, recognition is offered more casually: a simple thank you or handwritten note. These methods are effective, particularly when they’re carried out with a prompt and genuine manner. They’re also stimulating and exciting because everyone wants their efforts to be praised.

However, there are limitations to recognition. First, it’s based on performance therefore it’s conditional. The second reason is that it’s built on the past. So it’s based on what others have done before. Third, it’s scarce. There’s only a small amount of recognition that can be passed around — nobody can receive a bonus or get a mention in a memo and it is stressful when a lot of people are competing for a small number of accolades. Fourth, the recognition generally needs to be given by the highest levels. Many companies have created programs to allow colleagues to recognize each other’s accomplishments However, the most important types of acknowledgement (promotions as well as raises and other forms of recognition) generally are presented by the top leaders.

While recognition that is based on the payment of money can be a good thing research of the London School of Economics found that financial rewards can cause harm when it comes motivation for employees. Based on an analysis of 51 studies, “these incentives may reduce the employee’s desire to finish their work and also gain satisfaction by doing it.”

Appreciation However, appreciation is about acknowledging the inherent worth of an individual. It’s not about their accomplishments. It’s the value they bring to an individual and as a human being.

In essence, recognition is about the actions people take while it’s about who they are.

This is since appreciation and recognition are awarded for different motives. If people do well in their endeavors, there are bound to be challenges and failures throughout the process; depending on the task it is possible that there will not tangible outcomes to point towards. If you concentrate on the positive results you have achieved or recognizing your team members it is a waste of many opportunities to interact with and encourage your team members to acknowledge their contributions.

Here are a few employee appreciation ideas:

Listen. One of the most beneficial actions you can take for those you work with is the easiest: Turn off your cell phone, switch off from your laptop, and truly listen to the people you work with.

Share what you admire about their character. Being proactive and not just because somebody did something outstanding or you expect to get something from them is an extremely powerful gesture. It can significantly impact the way your colleagues view them, how you relate to them, as well as the atmosphere of the workplace.

Check in. I love a phrase that is often used to refer to Teddy Roosevelt: “People don’t pay attention to how much they know until they realize how much you value them.” Whatever the person who said it, it’s an effective reminder. Be sure to check in with those you collaborate with. Inquiring about their performance (and actually saying it) and what challenges they’re being faced by today can demonstrate that you are interested in them.

Giving employees appreciation is crucial for managers. According to Glassdoor’s Employee Appreciation Survey 53% of employees felt that feeling more appreciated by their boss could help them stay with their current employer longer – although 68% of them claimed that their boss shows their appreciation in a sufficient way. What’s the lesson? More is always better.