8 Sep
Employee Incentives That Work
Posted on 2009 under Coaching, Performance Management, Rob, perceptions |
What is the employee incentive that gives you the most “bang for your buck?” Studies have shown time and again that bonuses and rewards programs only turn into expectations rather than remaining incentives.
The true best thing you can do is personal recognition. No money, no logo t-shirt..no kidding.
But the recognition has to be a genuine contact: a true connection. You, as a manager or supervisor need to see how someone’s behavior warrants recognition and then make a sincere compliment. People are starved for heartfelt praise. It is worth its weight and gold and will bring huge returns. Here is where some managers can run into trouble. It’s easy to be disingenuous and be seen as someone who will pat employees on the back strictly for potential return.
But genuine appreciation is seen as such and truly appreciated. Taken to a different level, you should also recognize your fortune to have employees that deserve praise and by recognizing that, your candid praise will carry more weight and morale can take off.
by Psychologically Healthy Workplace Program, on September 16 2009 @ 2:06 pm
Great post.
Employers often over-emphasize incentives and under-emphasize recognition. Which can be a problem because, as you stated, not only can employees come to expect a reward every time, but incentives can discourage creativity and innovation since incentives provide pre-determined outcomes (if you do this, you get this).
However, recognizing employees, or noticing and showing appreciation for the efforts and results of employees, is more effective. When it comes down to it, the benefit of recognition is having employees feel valued for their efforts, not about the stuff they receive.