Many companies are using their performance management system for controlling and punishing teams that are not meeting their targets. It’s seldom we hear about companies rewarding teams for good results. And that’s a shame! We need to celebrate more.
Having a formal or informal employee reward system in place as a part of your organizational governance is a great way to motivate employees individually or in a group. It’s about noticing the small wins, highlighting them, showing gratitude, and celebrating together as a team. A reward in a form of quick celebration helps employees know that their contributions are valued and appreciated, and it encourages them to do their best work.
Taking time to celebrate your teams’ wins might seem like extra effort; however, trust us when we say that a little praise can go a long way. Improved company culture, enhanced team effort, and increased productivity are just some of the outcomes to expect when your employees feel valued. Short on resources? No problem. You don’t have to overthink this!
While monetary rewards are always welcome, your reward system might simply consist of an impromptu cake get-together, ordering a surprise breakfast, or taking your team to a happy hour. Perhaps you introduce a gong or some other musical instrument in your office that is used to signal celebration for winning a new deal. You decide the rules!
It can be as simple as this: Target achieved > Send email to the local baker and order a cake for delivery > Send out an invitation to the people responsible for the target achievement > Celebrate!
Be fair and genuine, and keep your celebrations fun and light. (Nothing will annoy your staff more than a forced cheer in a group setting.) When employees feel sincerely appreciated by their leadership, it incentivizes them to continue contributing and excelling. Moreover, it increases their job satisfaction and happiness levels, and happy employees produce the best work.
