Did you know that some of the world’s most successful leaders wear the same thing to the office daily? One of the most legendary work outfits belonged to the late Steve Jobs. He famously only had one style: a sleek black turtleneck, sneakers, and blue jeans. This minimal, now-iconic approach to apparel allowed Steve to make fewer daily decisions. Being a boss or manager is all about decision-making. Recognizing employees’ best efforts can be challenging when your mind is often already on to the next thing. No matter what wardrobe you wear into the office, we’re here to help you find creative and effective ways to recognize stellar employees.
Managerial Recognition
Managerial recognition is easily the most popular form of employee reward. Supervisors, managers, or even company owners keep metrics on each employee and later award them for their efforts. Because it’s so common, it seems normal for a boss or manager to be the one rewarding employees. But it’s not always fair. Their decisions can sometimes seem biased or unfair to employees. Using managerial recognition techniques at work will help employees feel acknowledged and praised by their superiors. The issue in this method lies in the fact that there is often too much on their plate for the busy head manager to track individual accomplishments. If that’s the case, ask lower managers to keep track of important milestones, such as anniversaries or top sales. Employees who are recognized tend to make it a priority to excel in the workplace, especially when they’re rewarded for specific actions. Sales goal awards, for example, are a great way to boost motivation in the workplace while also creating a healthy sense of competition among employees.
If you’re looking for managerial recognition award ideas, consider implementing perpetual plaques to create a sense of succession. Perpetual plaques are a great way to make a connected narrative perfect for top sales, employee of the month, outstanding achievement, and any other title. Just imagine how accomplished your workers will feel when they see their name highlighted on a perpetual plaque, and consider the amount of motivation some employees will feel when they see their name on the board.
Peer to Peer Recognition
Peer-to-peer recognition is an approach that has fallen under the radar for many, where management encourages their employees to recognize each other. Surprisingly, to most who have never tried it, this is usually the best way to create more workplace recognition. Colleagues know precisely what tasks are being done and who is accomplishing the most in their team. This behavior can form a strong sense of camaraderie and create special bonds and forms of honesty. According to this article, “peer-to-peer recognition is 35.7% more likely to positively impact financial results than manager-only recognition.”
Peer-to-peer recognition works best when the gift given is intimate and unique, tailored to the other person. While managerial awards are more general, goal-oriented, and ceremonial in nature, peer-to-peer recognition awards can be flexible and inventive. Personalized corporate gifts can include simple office tools like paperweights or engraved pens. Gift cards and certificates to stores and activities are also great options.
Examples of Employee Recognition
Whether it is manager-to-employee or peer-to-peer recognition, there are many unique ways to showcase your appreciation. Some companies use special apps for the staff to use daily (you can send digital high fives, etc.). Others like to be more original and reward their peers with a custom office gift as a token of appreciation. Some want to send companywide emails each month to highlight those who’ve accomplished time-sensitive goals, while others send a handwritten thank you note.
Employee Recognition Award Ideas
Practical corporate gifts like personalized pens or engraved glass pieces can be the cherry on top for a boss to include at the annual recognition awards ceremony. But don’t be afraid to think bigger, as corporate gifts for employees can also include extravagant recognition that doesn’t necessarily relate to work. Consider significant art glass awards that can dominate offices or desks, or a shining crystal plaque that will be the talk of the office. How long does it take to engrave a plaque? If you’re looking to give an impromptu gift or recognition award, don’t fret. We can engrave and ship your chosen award out just in time for your next awards ceremony.
