June 2020 – David Novak Leadership

At David Novak Leadership, we talk a lot about leadership principles. And recognition is one we highlight frequently because we know recognition is a leader’s secret weapon for motivating employees and building a great culture.

Everyone wants to feel appreciated for the value they bring to the workplace. As a leader, you can use recognition to let your team members know they matter. Showing gratitude is a small thing that makes a big difference to your workers.

But how exactly do you decide who to recognize and what is worthy of recognition? Here are two criteria to consider: hard results that are process driven and flexible recognition.

One way to recognize people is for hard results that are process driven, things like customer service or efficiency. Leaders leverage this type of recognition because it produces sustainable results. Check out these stories written by leaders who used recognition to motivate their teams.

However, great leaders don’t rely on just one form of recognition. Flexible recognition occurs when you, as the leader, recognize people for any kind of behavior you see that reinforces what you’re trying to drive in the organization. When you witness someone doing the kinds of things you want to lift up and make a positive example of, take time to let them know what you appreciate about them. Make sure to explain WHY the person is being recognized because this lets others know how they can work towards those same behaviors.

Flexible recognition also allows leaders to set the standard for the kinds of behaviors you want to see more of and which cultural values you want to reinforce. Recognition can become the catalyst leaders use to positively reinforce the behaviors that drive the culture of your team and organization.

Remember, as the leader, you set the standard. Take time to identify what behaviors and values you want to see more of, and then use recognition to motivate your people toward them. After this, become disciplined about recognizing people regularly. In fact, you can start this right now. Who will you recognize today?

If you need more examples of ways to recognize others, you can learn from Indra Nooyi, former Chairman and CEO of PepsiCo. She champions a number of recognition programs. In this podcast, she shares different ways she recognizes others – from sales managers to factory floor workers to executives. You’ll also learn her favorite form of recognition that “…is worth more than money, stock rounds, hugs, tickets, anything…”.

By: David Novak Leadership

Let’s be honest – it’s not common for households to have everyone home, all day, every day. In this new normal, there may be chaos, lack of communication, little to no silence and many disruptions.

During this pandemic, you can find many reasons to focus on the bad things, which can be extremely draining and contagious. So, how do you fix this?

The answer is actually simple – look for ways to recognize others throughout your day. When you start to look for the positive, it shifts your focus and your mindset to things that are good, which impacts your outlook and attitude.

Here are some great ways you can express appreciation towards the people around you today:

Write a thank you note. Writing a note shows the receiver that you care enough to put time, effort and thought into recognizing them. Learn how Jesse Cole built this into his daily routine here.
Give an award. Get creative! The effort and creativity behind the recognition can say a lot. Everyone could use more fun in their lives! Learn about Joey Zwillinger’s award here.
Be specific when you say thank you. It’s so important to explain why you are thanking them. This helps them understand what they are doing well and it will inspire them to do more of it in the future. Here’s an example on how to be specific:

“Thank you for leading the way when it comes to servant leadership. You take time to build relationships with everyone which sets a great example for all of us! You seek to understand the needs of people by listening well and asking questions. Then, you help find answers and solutions. Because of you, I feel cared about and valued which leads to a great environment to work in. You make a positive difference and matter to me.”

Recognition creates a feeling that can be addicting. Everyone needs more encouragement and affirmation, and you can be a catalyst for changing the entire mood in your home by using the power of recognition. This is a great way to get closer to others and work more like a team.

Remember, a little recognition can go a long way and make a lasting impression on the way each person in your household experiences this troubling time. Who will you recognize today?

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