As we have discussed before it is easy to fall into the trap of believing that all employees are motivated by money.
Naturally, everyone expects to be paid for the job they are doing. But when someone excels don’t automatically reach for the cash.
A heartfelt thank you can be all that is needed. I say all, but to the person concerned that is very often more meaningful and longer lasting.
You will need to choose how to praise that person, according to the circumstances:
- A group email, or at a team meeting, is ideal for the employee who has really pulled a team together, or made a significant contribution
- A private thank you behind closed doors is more suitable for the individual who has supported another employee who is struggling, or needs development
- A company wide thank you, or an award, that gives company recognition is great for the team member who has had a big impact on the bottom line – be that in growing sales, or making profit or efficiency savings
Setting up a culture of recognising contribution and thanking your team publicly will foster and encourage continuous good performance. After all – who doesn’t like to be praised for a job well done?