When it comes to recognition, promo is the gold standard. Whether it’s branded apparel or desk accessories, promo of all kinds lets you show your team members how much you appreciate them. When paired with other forms of recognition, like team shout-outs or handwritten notes, the recognition can feel even more personal.
Executive coach Naphtali Hoff, PsyD says a culture of recognition can transform a workplace. However, he says some leaders miss the mark. They may assume employees already know they’re appreciated or they hesitate to give recognition because they don’t want to play favorites. Sometimes, leaders simply forget to show appreciation.
Want a quick refresher on how you can show more gratitude to your team? Read on. In this issue of PromoPro Daily, we share Dr. Hoff’s tips for giving your team members genuine and consistent appreciation.
Say “thank you” often. Verbal recognition makes people feel seen, Dr. Hoff says, so when you’re wowed by someone’s performance or impressed by their accomplishment, tell them.
Publicly acknowledge contributions. This makes the recipient feel good and sets an example for others, Dr. Hoff says. Consider recognizing employees in staff meetings or on your company’s platforms. Just make sure you understand what makes each team member feel valued. Some employees may appreciate the public praise while others prefer a one-on-one conversation.
Celebrate small wins and milestones. Don’t just acknowledge the big achievements. When you recognize small victories and contributions — even just helping a colleague or learning a new skill — you create a culture of appreciation and motivation.
Invest in their development. Want to show your employees they matter? Give them opportunities to grow. This could mean offering mentorship or training opportunities. The idea, Dr. Hoff says, is to show that their contributions are valued not just today but in the long run.
Listen and show interest. According to Dr. Hoff, listening is a simple and effective way to make someone feel valued. Take time to talk to your team members. Ask them about their ideas, challenges and goals.
Showing true appreciation doesn’t require grand gestures or large budgets. It all comes down to showing your staff members that their contributions matter. Whether you give promo or say “thank you” more often, when you regularly show your appreciation, you’ll benefit from a loyal, more productive team.
Compiled by Audrey Sellers
Source: Naphtali Hoff, PsyD is an executive coach who helps leaders and their teams become more productive.
