Recognition Programs
Recognition programs that acknowledge exceptional performance, outstanding attendance, or meeting a milestone are fun and relatively inexpensive ways to boost employee morale.
Offer an incentive for each time an employee is praised by a customer verbally or in writing. If a customer sends a letter or e-mail, post a copy on the employee bulletin board for everyone to see. This will not only give the employee well-deserved congratulations from coworkers, it will encourage others to have their name mentioned as well. As a reward, you can add a bonus to his paycheck or give a gift certificate to a local store or restaurant.
Encourage customers to recognize outstanding customer service by distributing comment cards or an e-mail survey. One of the greatest compliments an employee or a team can receive is to be individually recognized by a satisfied customer. Put a copy in the employee's personnel file. If a customer calls to commend an employee, document and file the conversation.
Start an employee-of-the-month program if your staff is large enough. First, decide how the winner will be chosen. Will he be nominated by his peers or selected by management? Can someone win more than once a year? Recognize your employee of the month with a certificate or a plaque to take home. For the business site, you can purchase a large plaque that will give you the room to display the engraved name and month of each employee of the month. Designate a preferred parking spot for the winner, complete with a “Reserved for Employee of the Month” sign. Take the award a step further by designating an employee of the year. This person will typically receive his award at an end — of-the-year holiday party or banquet if one is planned.
