When was the last time you as an alarm company owner, boss or supervisor gave a compliment or some form of positive feedback to your associates? Maybe you have an incentive program in place, give cash awards for performance or a bouquet of balloons for birthdays.

These are all positive and well-received ideas, but by the nature of being a part of a program, they become expected and have the most impact (negative) when someone is forgotten on his or her birthday. Employees come to expect compensation as a right while recognition is a gift.

Why is it that business owners withhold the one thing employees need the most to improve their performance and boost their self-image? Praise is the main ingredient missing in the workplace today. It is also the least expensive thing you can give your workers.

Although some employers assume money can solve any work-related problem, praise can sometimes be the remedy. Giving them a verbal and written pat on the back in public, being sincere, and seeking out good performers, show you value your workers and believe they contribute greatly to the success of your company.

Employees’ Hard Work Should Be Recognized, Rewarded

Everyone likes to be appreciated. How many owners/managers consider “appreciating others” to be a major function of their job? In today’s business world, emphasis is mainly placed on technology and the speed of communication. In offices around the world, technology has replaced personal interaction. Our computer terminals and the ‘Net have become our best friends.

Is Money the Best Motivator?

Often, we believe that the pay employers offer is the most important element of the job. “Show me the money” is what business owners believe they hear, and if some other company pays a dollar more per hour, that employer will lose employees. Have you talked with your employees about the things they believe are important to their being motivated on the job?

While money is important, it isn’t the No. 1 motivator. It can become a poor motivational tool. Remember, most employees take monetary rewards for granted and performance-based money awards are quickly perceived to be an entitlement. What tends to motivate people to perform at high levels is the thoughtful, personal recognition that signifies true appreciation for exceptional work.

Become a Team Player; Not Just a Leader

Yogi Berra once said, “You can observe a lot just by watching.” If you manage by walking around and watching, you won’t miss much.

7 Keys Will Help You Achieve Effective Praise

If you’re not certain how to reward your employees by praising them, here are seven tips to keep in mind:

1) Praise behavior you want to reinforce.

2) Mean the compliment; be
sincere.

3) Be specific. For example, say, “I like the way you handled that customer complaint.”

4) Make your compliments in public.

5) Follow up your praise in writing.

6) Look around and seek out performance to praise.

7) Be creative in your praise.

What Can You Do to Motivate Employees?

Today, the job market is thriving and many people are realizing there is a plethora of jobs waiting for them. Employers who want to avoid turnover should definitely look for ways to motivate their employees so they will stay.

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