Recognition strategies can include the following:

• Quarterly themes or contests: The key to helping people remem- ber what is most important in any given time period is to make it memorable and fun. The theme/contest can be focused on revenue goals, customer service levels, safety statistics, or any key performance indicator deemed critical for the organization. The theme/contest should include the following:
  • Theme
  • Theme (visual) scoreboard or
  • Reward for achieving the theme goal (a reward is typically a tangible item—money, gift, ).
  • Theme celebration (a celebration is typically a special experi- ence or event for achieving the theme, like a party).
• Above and Beyond the Call of Duty (ABCD) Award: Reward peo- ple for doing something outside of the scope of their job in or- der to help a client, coworker, or supplier. Nominations for this award can be made by anyone (supervisor, coworker, or sub- ordinate). Hold an “all hands” meeting each month where the stories behind each of the nominations are told.
• Employee dollars: Give out fake money when an employee is caught doing something great. This money can only be redeemed for work-related privileges or gifts (time off, gift to their favorite charity, etc.).
• Visibility: Praise people in a way that gives them more visibility within the organization. You can mention them in the company newsletter, give them an appreciation lunch, or recognize them at a company event.
• Include the family: Reward an employee by taking that person and his or her family out to lunch, dinner, or a show. Including the family adds a nice personal touch, which will be greatly appreciated.
• Education/personal growth: Offer to send people to a seminar, workshop, or hire a coach for them. This will show appreciation and improve their productivity at the same time.
• Thank you notes: Show your appreciation by sending a thank you note immediately following a job well done.