How to Ensure Recognition Is Given Fairly

There are multiple ways to express and show recognition.

Employee and personal recognition is important to maintain morale and build self-esteem. Recognition can come in many forms, from monetary gifts to verbal praise for accomplishments. It is important to make sure that those being recognized are aware of why they are receiving praise--and you need to ensure that all recognition is administered fairly. As a result, you'll need to keep accurate records on reasons for recognition and the people who performed beyond expectations.

Instructions

1. Create a list of tasks and goals. Distribute the list and all supplemental documentation to everyone who is working on the project or task. Ensure that everyone clearly understands what is expected in terms of performance. For example, if you are having sales employees work toward group and sales goals, you would create a document with the stated total sales goal, sales goals listed by individuals and dates that the employees have to reach and exceed the stated goals. Require all employees to respond to you stating that they understand what is expected of them in terms of performance.

2. Track performance and make notations regarding whether or not goals were missed, met or exceeded. List each person working on the same project or task and clearly state how they are performing to the stated expectations they were given. Track performance by having employees report results on a regular basis. For example, for a monthly sales goal have sales employees report their individual sales figures every Friday at the close of business. Compile updates and distribute current results to everyone.

3. Update everyone working on the same project with a status update regarding progress made as a group and list names of people who have exceeded goals. For example, if a project with stated goals is to last a month, update everyone on a weekly basis and again at the conclusion of the project or stated time frame.

4. Review final results and determine where there was success. Note who was responsible for success attained and keep accurate notes and lists documenting progress and end results. Determining success is to be done using tangible results. For example, for a monthly sales goal project, include data in the final results showing original goals and achieved goals. Explain and highlight those who both met and exceeded original goals.

5. Give recognition to everyone who met goals and give additional praise to those who exceeded stated goals. Recognize everyone on the project with a written letter or email thanking them for their participation. Include information in the document highlighting those who exceeded expectations. Offer to talk individually with those who did not meet expectations and explain to them the reasons why they did not succeed as well as others.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep information organized and up to date to determine and gauge success.

• Do not berate or belittle employees or others due to not performing well.

• Save criticism about missed goals for personal discussions.

References

• Inc. Magazine: Building A Culture Of Employee Appreciation
• Entrepreneur Magaine: Cheap Ways To Motivate Your Team