The Great Workplace Toolbox

Self Assessment - Exercise - Perspectives - Examples - Back to the Toolbox

Self Assessment

1. For what things are employees currently rewarded and recognized by the organization (performance, attendance, etc.)?
   
2. How are employees recognized (monetary vs. non-monetary awards)?
   
3. Does your organization allow employees to recognize co-workers for excellent performance?
   
4. Have you ever asked your employees how they would like to be rewarded/recognized?
   
5. How many generations are represented by your workforce? Do their motivators and needs differ?
   

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Exercise: Create a "Like-List"

Create a form that asks employees to provide their name and list their likes (hobbies, favorite foods, favorite places to shop, etc.). Have your managers and supervisors distribute the form to all your employees to complete and then return back to you. Review the responses and share the feedback with your managers and supervisors. Are you surprised by the results? Are there any major differences within and between departments, age groups, or genders? How might these differences affect how you and your management team rewards and recognizes employees in the future? Would it be beneficial to provide this form to all future new-hires as well?

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Perspectives

94% of NorthCoast 99 winners have some sort of peer recognition program. Typically, the programs provide a means for employees to recognize their co-workers for great performance or for exemplifying company values. Many times the recognition is shared with the co-worker and with their manager or supervisor, and often employees who are recognized over an established period of time are eligible for rewards or prizes.

The individual recognition could be as simple as a thank-you note or as elaborate as time off or all-expense paid cruises. Whatever the method used or the reward provided, the important thing is that the recognition takes place. According to the results of the 2005 ERC Job Attributes Importance Survey, Top Performers want to be recognized and rewarded for their Individual Performance. When that recognition comes from other peers, it can help build a stronger sense of camaraderie and teamwork, potentially developing deeper levels of commitment to co-workers and to the organization's success.

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Examples

• The Weaver Leather “Shining Star of Character Award” is given monthly to employees who exemplify the character trait of the month in the company’s character development program. Co-workers or managers may nominate employees for the award.

• St. John West Shore has several recognition programs including the “All-Star Program” where employees can nominate co-workers for outstanding contributions to patient care or adherence to the Hospital’s core values. Winners receive a plaque and a $50 gift certificate and are honored at a reception during normal work hours. The employee’s family members are also invited.

  The “Bravo Program” allows employees to provide immediate positive feedback to co-workers who provide exemplary care. A written summation of the co-workers actions are shared with the recipient as well as a “Bravo” pin. Once a recipient receives 4 pins, he or she can redeem them for a gift certificate of choice.

  The hospital’s “ABCD Program” recognizes top performers who go above and beyond the call of duty. A written summary and completed form are sent to the employee and the HR Department.

• The Equity Consultants GEM (Going the Extra Mile) Awards honor employees who demonstrate good character through Teamwork, Attitude, Professionalism, Creativity, and Work Ethic. All employees receive a GEM nomination notepad and are encouraged to “write up” GEM nominations for deserving peers, subordinate, or supervisors. The write ups must be approved by the employee’s supervisor (unless the person being nominated is in management), and the forms are then given to the nominees by their co-worker.

  On a monthly basis, nominations slips can be redeemed for gift certificates. Five awards earn a $10 gift certificate, 10 awards earn $20, and up to 50 awards earn $100. Ion addition, 5 GEM recipients are chosen for a monthly prize – worth up to $50.

  At the end of the year, 5 GEM recipients are chosen based on the significance of impact that their contributions have made during the course of the year. These 5 individuals receive a “super secret” grand prize, awarded in December.

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