Seen, Heard, & Valued: How Prioritizing Recognition Drives Engagement & Success
Have you ever wondered why some teams seem to hum with positivity & engagement while others struggle?
It often boils down to one simple but powerful practice: Recognition.
Let’s explore how intentional recognition can transform workplaces, foster trust, & ignite performance!
The Power of Recognition:
Recognition is more than a “nice-to-have”—it’s a cornerstone of high-performing cultures. Research by Gallup & Workhuman highlights its impact:
56% of employees are less likely to job hunt when they feel recognized.
Employees are 5x more likely to connect with their company culture & 4x more likely to recommend their organization to friends.
It’s not just about the numbers; it’s about the human connection. As Oprah Winfrey wisely noted: “Every single person you ever meet shares this common desire: Do you see me? Do you hear me? Does what I say mean anything to you?”
Four Top-Notch Tips for Recognition
1. Personalize Your Praise
Recognition resonates most when it’s specific & tailored. Use the FBI Model (Feelings, Behavior, Impact) to craft meaningful acknowledgments.
Behavior: Describe the specific behavior that you think is amazing.
Feelings: Express how the person’s behavior made you feel.
Impact: Explain how the behavior affected you or the situation & explain what the impact will be if that behavior continues.
2. Ask How They Like to Be Celebrated
Recognition isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some prefer a public shout-out; others value a private note. Ask team members what resonates with them—whether it’s words of affirmation, quality time, or tangible gifts.
3. Celebrate the Steps
Don’t wait for monumental achievements to celebrate—embrace every step forward, no matter how small. The Progress Principle highlights that employees feel most engaged, fulfilled, & genuinely happy when they see meaningful progress in their work. Be the leader who recognizes & celebrates those moments of growth & accomplishment.
4. Operationalize Your Recognition
Habits drive culture. Build recognition into your systems:
Dedicate a Slack channel for kudos & confetti.
Automate celebrations for milestones using tools like Bonusly or Goody.
Start meetings with a round of appreciation, setting a positive tone for collaboration.
Key Takeaways:
Recognition isn’t about checking a box; it’s about creating a culture where people thrive. When you prioritize intentional, genuine acknowledgment:
Trust deepens.
Engagement & productivity soar.
Your team feels truly valued for who they are & what they do.
Your Challenge:
Today, watch our webinar here, & commit to one action from your Recognition Action Plan. Whether it’s sending a thoughtful note or asking a teammate how they like to be celebrated, take that step. Together, let’s create workplaces where everyone feels seen, heard, & valued.
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