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Four Elements of Recognition That Work

"So how do you offer recognition that works?  You make sure if includes at least one of the four basic elements of meaningful recognition.  If you don't include at least one of the elements, you aren't giving recognition.  You're giving an incentive, prize, gift, or plaque, but not recognition that works.  The four elements are praise, thanks, opportunity, and respect.  Recognition that works is typically a combination of more than one of these four elements.

Praise

Employees want to hear you say, 'Hey, you accomplished something important.' They want you to acknowledge their progress.  They want you to see what they do right.

Thanks

A sincere thank-you is a highly valued form of recognition that works.  Some managers think there is no need to thank a person who is doing his or her job.  It's true that you don't have to thank each employee, but if their efforts make your job easier, then thank him or her.  Everyone responds to heartfelt appreciation.  Employees will work many times harder for managers who express their gratitude.

Opportunity

At first glance, opportunity doesn't appear to be an element of recognition, but it's actually a very important element of recognition that works.  Give your employees new opportunities to contribute in a meaningful way and learn new skills, provide them with more freedom in how the work gets done, and they will be committed to you and your department's success.

Respect

Respect is an often overlooked element of recognition.  In reality, it is probably the most crucial element.  Without it, employees feel, at best half recognized.  Employees want to be valued, not just for what they can do, but for who they are (Ventrice, 2003, p. 16-20)."

Reference:  Ventrice, C. (2003).  Make their day!: employee recognition that works: simple ways to boost morale, productivity, and profits.  San Francisco:  Berrett-Koehler Publishers, Inc.

How well are you utilizing the four elements of recognition?

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Created: 2008-04-03, Updated: 2009-01-09