All of us can appreciate that it means a lot when something is done to demonstrate recognition for hard work and contributions to the workplace. While this is significant on a personal level, making this part of your company culture also goes a long way to bolster employee engagement, as well as contributing to an employee wellbeing strategy. Creating a culture where employees feel valued and recognised reinforces a positive relationship between an employer and its employees, contributing to overall wellbeing as well as job satisfaction and performance. It is also worth bearing in mind that, as many of us have shifted to remote or hybrid working, specific recognition may be all the more appreciated when face-to-face interactions with colleagues have been reduced.
There are many ways that employers can factor recognition into their rewards and benefits strategy. Examples of this can include:
- Acknowledging employee accomplishments and contributions right away for maximum impact; taking the time to write a personal note or email conveying appreciation
- Showing recognition by thanking employees at team meetings or on social media
- Offering a bonus, promotion or salary rise for those reaching defined goals
- Sending gifts or gift cards to thank employees for success with particular projects or achievements
- Offering extra time off
- Celebrating and sharing success by having a social gathering, such as a team lunch or office get-together recognising employees’ work
An employee who does not feel appreciated or recognised can feel isolated and unmotivated. Feeling valued has the following wide-reaching benefits:
- Increased morale: employees feel appreciated when they receive recognition for hard work, improving confidence and enthusiasm and leading to a better sense of overall wellbeing
- Improved engagement: regular employee recognition and appreciation can incentive employees to do their best, leading to increased engagement. Employees are more productive, as they are motivated and become more efficient with their time and energy.
- Better company performance: linked to engagement, when employees receive appreciation for good work and are more motivated, increased productivity levels can benefit the business with better results
- Positive impact on teamwork: if employees can see each other’s hard work celebrated, this can create encouragement between team members and build a sense of unity and belonging
- Strong company culture: providing appreciation and recognition regularly creates a more positive work environment and stronger sense of teamwork. Rewarding employees for actions that are in line with company core values reinforces a positive company culture.
- Reduced absences and improved staff retention: satisfied and engaged employees who feel valued are less likely to call in sick, and are more likely to feel a sense of company loyalty and remain with their employer
Timely recognition and appreciation has both personal and company-wide benefits, reinforcing a positive, productive company culture as well as your employee wellbeing strategy. Having an effective structure in place to ensure that hard work is rewarded contributes to greater job satisfaction. This can lead to increased wellbeing and productivity for employees, in turn contributing to a positive company culture and – ultimately – improved business performance. It is important to be conscious of how much these gestures of appreciation really are appreciated, and contribute to a positive cycle within your organisation.