Motivating Employees through Recognition
September 4, 2008 – 7:16 am
A common approach many practices take to motivate and reward employees is to offer bonuses and competitive pay. However, in these economic times, it’s more difficult to offer monetary compensation for hard work. If you find yourself in this situation, don’t fret. There are other ways to reward employees – and it doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
Public recognition helps build employee morale and personal fulfillment.
At the weekly or monthly team meeting take a few minutes to recognize the team or an individual for his or her contribution. Let them know they play an important role in the success of the practice and that you couldn’t function as a team without them. Some people might not like the spotlight of individual public recognition, so pull them aside and thank them in private.
Rewards build team spirit and enthusiasm.
If you have a few bucks to spare, use rewards to celebrate your team’s success. You can do this by:
- Bringing coffee and donuts in the morning
- Host bowling parties or drinks after work
- Celebrate birthdays
- Offer service awards
- Grant paid days off
- Give gift cards
Employee recognition will also benefit you as a manager. It encourages your team to stay motivated, increase productivity, and ultimately strive for success.
-Mary
