It seems that one of the secrets to a productive workforce – and therefore a successful business – is something called good morale. Just what is good morale? It usually refers to how your employees feel about their jobs, you and your business. And that can directly affect your bottom line.
So the next question would be: "What contributes to good morale in the work environment?"
It’s a myth that good employees care only about money. Money is important, but there are many items that contribute to an employee’s morale. Interestingly, some are so fundamental that we tend to miss them completely. For instance, do your employees feel:
- Treated fairly and respectfully?
- Valued and appreciated?
- Recognized and possibly even rewarded for their work?
It shouldn’t take you long to realize that if you wish to attract, recruit and retain good employees, fair and respectful treatment is a given. Employees who do not feel valued and appreciated will either contribute less effort as time goes on, or leave for greener pastures where they will be appreciated.
In addition, everyone likes to have achievements and efforts recognized. Even though personal satisfaction is usually generated from within ourselves, it is always more meaningful if someone else notices and shares the success. This is where the concept of recognition and rewards come in. Rewards can motivate and encourage employees to contribute to their own success and that of your business.
You don’t have to give away big-ticket items like a car or trip to some exotic locale. On the contrary, employees are often delighted with a range of rewards that can be provided at little or no cost. Most importantly, ensure your program fits the culture and image of your company.
THE MOST EFFECTIVE REWARD AND RECOGNITION PROGRAMS HAVE FIVE ELEMENTS:
- Achievable: Set achievable standards. If it can’t be accomplished, it becomes a de-motivator.
- Objective: Tell employees exactly what it takes to achieve a reward or recognition.
- Sensible: Include rewards that are logical motivators. If you are in your busy season, don’t award additional time off if your schedule can’t tolerate it for another six months.
- Timely: Waiting too long to deliver a reward or recognition will lessen the impact.
- Useful: If possible, measure and reward something that helps to produce useful business results.
THERE ARE NO FIRM RULES ABOUT WHAT TO RECOGNIZE, BUT MANY PROGRAMS RECOGNIZE THE FOLLOWING:
- Productivity/quality
- Customer service
- Peer recognition
- Superior performance or extraordinary achievement
- Safety
- Length of service
Remember, recognition and rewards need to be offered with sincerity and thoughtfulness. Recognizing employees is about giving thanks and credit where credit is due and making those employees feel valued and appreciated for a job well done.