Today's Workplace Trend:

Did you know...that about 90% of organizations today have employee recognition programs? That's what WorldatWork (a human resource professional organization) reports.  And the trend is continuing, as organizations are keeping up their recognition programs and even adding more in the near future.

So, why are employees recognized?  Many organizations recognize people for length of service, retaining talent and employee loyalty is important to employers.  Most also recognize performers who go above and beyond.  And some are starting to recognize team accomplishments.  Whether you are a supervisor or an employee, recognizing others is important. Here are a few tips for finding--or being--those superstars, whether they're in the spotlight or not.

Recognition Tips:
-  Look outside the spotlight.  Yes, there are obvious superstars, but who helped get them there?  Look behind the obvious person and try to find those people who are doing an excellent job, but are so stable and dependable you almost forget they're there.  Who keeps things in order?  Who provides a perfect product every time?  Who is working hard to improve--and has had some success at it?  Who is in a support role  that may not hear "thank you" often enough?  Reward that person.  This is your true Valentine--because they show the love every single day without asking for a thing in return!  Show them you notice--and care.

-  Think outside the box. Many organizations have formal recognition programs, and many have added informal rewards.  Take advantage of every single resource available.  Little things like certificates, recognition at a team meeting, or small tokens like an organization's pen or other "trinket," or movie tickets can count as much to some employees as the end-of-year bonuses.  Make a list of everything you can do--and then use it when appropriate to motivate and reward great performance.
-  Match the reward to the employee's needs. A long term employee with tons of extra vacation days might not be motivated by a time off award.  Someone who hates movie theaters might not appreciate movie tickets.  An employee whose desk is littered with organizational trinkets might not really appreciate one more.  Learn what motivates your people, and use your rewards wisely.  
 -  Say "thank you" often. An employee might appreciate a sincere "thank you" more than any monetary reward--especially when the "thank you" is done with sincerity and with clarity on what the employee did well.  A pat on the back is always welcome for people who work hard to make the organization successful.  Remind yourself to thank your employees and co-workers frequently--and don't be afraid to do it in front of their co-workers.