As the global workforce stands on still-shaky economic ground, many employees are still working remotely. Some leaders have recognized the importance of further engaging teams during chaotic times and have implemented digital tools, streamlined processes, and automated as much as possible. The timely recognition of employee achievements is critical to maintaining an engaged culture in a remote workplace.
Recognition alone, however, doesn't build culture. Tying reward delivery automatically to recurring dates like birthdays and service anniversaries requires much different behavior from delivering rewards for quick thinking in the moment: one requires a shift in leadership thinking. Remembering to recognize in a timely manner with genuine enthusiasm delivers the intended result: a sense of belonging and empowerment that translates to boosted levels of employee engagement.
While automation and digital transformation carry enormous competitive advantages and workplace improvements, “set it and forget it” strategies can leave human psychological needs in the dust–especially when so many employees are overnight remote workers. Keep in mind that employees have stepped up in a big way for their organizations by evolving and moving with companies to adjust to constantly shifting sands this year, creating more opportunity for sending genuine kudos to keep up momentum and morale.
Engaged employees make it a point to show up to work and do more work -- highly engaged business units realize a 41% reduction in absenteeism and a 17% increase in productivity. And the most effective recognition in boosting employee engagement is individualized and authentic.
One in four employees strongly agree that they have received recognition or praise for doing good work in the last week. (Gallup)
If organizations could move the ratio on this item from one in four to six in 10, they could see a 28% improvement in quality and a 31% reduction in absenteeism.
The more leadership continues to call out employees for their individual contributions, the more likely a rich culture of recognition is modeled across an organization. Gratitude inspires gratitude.
