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Effective Recognition Training & Consulting

Introduction

"Ten Steps to Effective Recognition"

"Before everything else, getting ready is the secret to success." Henry Ford

Henry Ford got it right. Getting ready is the secret to success. That same business principle applies to recognition and motivation.

Early in my career, I discovered my passion for employee recognition. I read books on motivation and incentives, trying to absorb as much as I could. As a new supervisor, I wanted to be the best leader I could be, especially since my team was made up of my former peers. Letting them down was not an option. My biggest learning came the way most of life's great lessons are taught, be experience.

It was a Friday afternoon. I was sitting in the audience at my department's recognition celebration, greeting coworkers as they entered the festively decorated room. I was feeling good. The new recognition program I designed was off to a strong start. Employees embraced it and management was thrilled. Just then, Susan, our department's Vice President, leaned over to me and said, "Michelle, we have a change in plans. I have to join an important conference call, so I would like you to present the award today."

Poof! Suddenly, serenity and confidence disappeared, replaced by apprehension and butterflies. Although I tried to smile, she sensed my nervousness and reassured me, "I know you can do this. Just be yourself!" Susan is one of the most energetic leaders I have ever met. She is a natural motivator.

A million thoughts raced through my mind...Sure, I can do this. I am a supervisor and our department's recognition advocate. Of course I know how to present an award and share verbal recognition. Right? Well, not exactly. What am I going to say?

Truth is, I didn't know. So I did what anybody in my situation would do...I winged it!

As sweat began to pool in the palms of my hands, I slowly rose from my seat and walked toward the front of the room.

Today, as a recognition training facilitator, I enjoy working with big groups. At the time, public speaking was about as uncomfortable for me as, well, talking in front of a large number of staring people! After a very brief greeting, I announced the winner of the Above & Beyond Award. The team cheered as Mike accepted his well-deserved recognition. I anxiously shook his hand, awkwardly juggling the award, almost dropping it as I handed it to him. Looking at the floor I said, Good job!" And...that was it.

Bewildered, he returned to his seat. Flustered, so did I.

The truth is, even if there had been only one person in the audience, I still wouldn't have known what to say or do. For some people, like Susan, the ability to recognize others effectively comes naturally. It is part of their personality. For the majority of people, like myself, communicating appreciation that creates an emotional connection is a core leadership skill that can be developed.

I believe that failure is only a mistake if repeated.

That experience taught me a valuable lesson. There truly is a difference between recognition and effective recognition. And in order for one to be a breakthrough motivator, preparation is essential. I began observing and talking to people about motivation and soon realized that I was not alone; there are lots people who feel uncomfortable delivering recognition.

Many of us are eager to recognize a coworker, yet struggle to express our appreciation. Often, we resort to the old standby, 'Good job!' as we pat the recipient on the back and hurry along, leaving them wondering, 'Good job? What did I do right so I can do it again?'

Since general comments do not communicate what specific actions took place, it is unlikely that the person will repeat the desired behavior, defeating one of the most important goals of sharing praise and recognition.

Looking back, I realize that Friday afternoon was a defining moment for me, It was the catalyst to accepting the job managing Ameritech's recognition platform for 70,000 employees, to later taking the risk of starting my own recognition practice, and ultimately to writing this book.

My hope is that the Ten Steps To Effective Recognition helps you:

~ Become a breakthrough motivator by providing a strategy and useful tips on how to present effective recognition.

~ Feel comfortable and enjoy delivering verbal and written recognition.

~ Learn from my experiences so you don't miss valuable motivational opportunities.

You can approach Ten Steps to Effective Recognition in two ways: One is by simply reading it. The second, that I recommend, is by action learning: read then practice. I encourage you to think of one person who as accomplished something exceptional you would like to recognize. By the last step, you will be able to share your heartfelt appreciation with that person...the right way.

This is your opportunity to learn and practice in a safe environment. It is normal to feel a few butterflies when you first try the Ten Steps to Effective Recognition. The more you apply it, the more natural you will feel and sound. I know you can do it. Just be yourself! And remember, breakthrough motivation, like most things in life, requires a bit of preparation to be successful.

The next step is up to you...