Recognition

As a parent I know the importance of showing love to my children.  It’s one matter to love, it’s entirely another to show it consistently.  When I coach or train my clients I often ask the question, “Is it enough to tell your husband or wife ‘I love you’ once a year?  Could you tell them on their birthday or anniversary and that would be enough for them until the following year?”

The response that usually follows laughter is “of course not, I’d be divorced already.”

So it isn’t about loving but about showing the love that’s important.  How you show it is up to you, however it’s important that how you show it resonates with the person receiving it.

I’m not a perfect parent by any stretch, but I do tell my each of my kids that I love them about ten times a day.  In addition I hug and kiss them each at least ten times a day and I make sure I spend some good one-on-one time with each of them, either playing, learning, reading or whatever it is they want to do.

The same can be said for the workplace.  Inherently we know that our work and our efforts are appreciated, but like the husband or wife of ten years, it’s nice to hear that we’re appreciated.  And appreciated on a regular basis!

From a Gallup survey of thousands of workers in all levels in different companies all over the world they asked what made a great workplace.  There were twelve key factors that emerged.  Three of those factors were the following:

  • In the last seven days, I have received recognition or praise for doing good work.
  • My supervisor, or someone at work, seems to care about me as a person.
  • There is someone at work who encourages my development.

So it isn’t just a matter of appreciating, but regularly… in fact every week.  This appreciation should be immediate and will hit the mark in a strong way if it’s more than just a pat on the back and a “good job.”  Better to notice specifically what was done that deserved recognition and praise the good work and the quality in the person.  For example; “Good work finishing the project on time.  I appreciate your dedication working through the weekend to ensure it was completed.  The client is very happy with the results.”

Taking the time with your staff will show that you care and your team will in turn spend more of their discretionary effort for your benefit.

For more information on leading a team successfully, please feel free to contact Matthew.

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This entry was posted in 7 Criteria, Be Inspired, Business Coaching, Coaching, Engagement, Leadership, Parenthood, Personal Coaching, Self-assured and tagged , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

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