Keeping Employees Can Be FUN!

Ok, so it isn't easy and a lot of times it goes unnoticed, unthought-of, and is bane of your existence. What is IT? IT is employee recognition and appreciation. There are few words that can evoke a feeling of appreciation like "Thank You" or "Nice Job." Over the years, numerous studies and surveys have documented that money is not the primary motivator for most employees. Most employees of today's workforce are looking for a job they enjoy, at a place they like go, with people whom they identify, and want to feel personally satisfied. You have the formula, now go create that place! Just kidding; it is hard to do and cannot just happen overnight. However, there are many ways to achieve the environment and one way is through consistent employee recognition and appreciation.

Simple Ideas:

• Be sincere and distribute praise equitably, if reasonable.
• When possible, praise people publicly in meetings or employee newsletters.
• Be sure to give people credit and rewards for good ideas they come up with that benefit the company.
• Reinforce the right behaviors.
• Avoid saying "Great but..."
• Look for key measures to recognize employees, such as production, client retention rate, etc.
• Come up with contests to recognize your employees, such as the most referrals for another service you offer, or the most new clients brought in.
• Give recognition certificates, plaques and prizes and other than money, such as tickets for movie rental or sports events, or gift certificates for merchandise or dinner. Giving something tangible makes a more lasting impression. (see below for an idea)
• Praise your best performers (the top 10-20%) - it will raise the bar for your weaker people.

Inexpensive Activity: Find a bunch of small, flat, smooth rocks (about the size of a quarter or half dollar) and paint them different colors. Take a permanent marker and write a "U" on each. Seal the rocks with a clear polyurethane spray. When an employee does something worthy of recognition, give them one of the rocks along with a handwritten note telling them "U Rock!"

The goal is to encourage behaviors that build your business and recognize your people for practicing those behaviors as often as possible. If you recognize your people frequently for their good work, they will repeat the performance. If you aren't the driver of your "Fun Bus," consider nominating a head cheerleader in your office.