When was the last time you were recognized for doing a great job? I hope your answer is recent. Unfortunately, “The Greatness Gap” research study indicates 53 percent of employees don’t feel recognized by their organization.
Recognition is an essential military tradition. Military awards and decorations are given to symbolize service members’ accomplishments. Service members receive medals for bravery, distinguish service, unit performance, and different military operations.
Service members also receive awards for significant career milestones. Over the course of my career, I was privileged to receive several awards. I remember when I was awarded my first medal, the Army Achievement Medal. I was so excited!
After 20 years of service, I chose to retire. My ceremony was conducted at the Hall of Heroes in the Pentagon. I remember standing in front of my family and friends as my boss shared the highlights of my career.
As I listen to my boss, the smile on my face grew bigger and bigger. At the end of her remarks, my boss presented the Legion of Merit medal to me. I was stunned!
Why? The Legion of Merit is awarded for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of one’s duty. The award is typically awarded to senior military officers and political figures of foreign governments.
While it was nice to receive the award, what made it special was what my boss said when she read the citation. I felt valued and respected for my hard work. I reflected on the feedback I received from her to help me grow as a leader.
Why is recognition important? According to Bersin and Associates, employee engagement, productivity and customer services increases by 14 percent when recognition occurs regularity.
So, does that mean you as the leader should walk around patting employees on the back every 5 minutes? Absolutely not!
One must also remember while employees want to be recognized for their hard work, an annual performance review is not sufficient.
As a leader, how do you meet the needs of your employees? The Greatness Gap study has shown employees want constructive and specific feedback regularly. When surveyed, 72 percent of employees said specific and constructive feedback would improve their performance.
“Greatness doesn’t happen by chance-it’s the accumulation of daily success. True greatness consists in being great in little things.”
Charles Simmons
To increase retention and help others find greatness, provide specific and constructive feedback on a regular basis.
Are you helping others find their greatness?
Your leadership guide,
Kim
Dr. Kim Moore | Your Leadership Guide | kimdmoore.com
0 comments