More than Money: Motivating Employees Through Recognition

When it comes to satisfaction and motivation to succeed in our jobs, is it really all about the money?  After all, isn’t money the key reason people stay in their jobs?  You might be surprised to hear that this couldn’t be further from the truth.

One of the biggest myths surrounding employee motivation is in fact, money. While it’s true that money may prevent some from being less motivated and unhappy in their jobs, it usually doesn’t make people tick in the way we all think.  I don’t think there is a silver-bullet when it comes to what truly inspires employees to increase productivity, however one truth exists: every employee is motivated by feeling like they are making a difference in an organization.

Recognition can be the simplest and strongest catalyst for employee motivation and increase job performance. Employee recognition is a tool that can reinforce the most important outcomes people can create for your organization. Ten simple ideas include:

1. An award or plaque to display in front of peers: public recognition in front of co-workers not only reinforces the desired performance within the employee you are rewarding, but also among your other employees
2. A written thank-you note: a private thank you shows a deep level of sincerity and genuine gratitude
3. A supervisor’s note to top company leadership about an employee’s excellent performance
4. Frequent and spontaneous “pats on the back”: immediate recognition reinvigorates employees and makes them feel supported
5. A chance to be on a special project: this elevates an employee’s feeling of involvement and ownership in the company  
6. A day off
7. A chance to go to lunch with senior management
8. A promotion or change in my title: even a simple title change distinguishes them from the rest and along with new responsibilities, gives them a renewed sense of motivation to succeed
9. A small memento or gift
10. A seminar or training class: this is a wonderful tool that tells the employee that you value their place in the organization so much that you’re willing to invest more to keep them around for the long run

Over and over, we hear that employees want recognition for work well done and few of them have their paycheck as their top reason they love their jobs.  Take time to praise your good people and find creative ways to show your appreciation and you will increase the odds of keeping them.  Don’t be an “invisible” boss…smile, acknowledge them, call them by name and respect them.