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Why Employees Need Both Recognition and Appreciation

We often refer to the words “recognition” as well as “appreciation” to mean the same thing, but there’s a distinct distinction between them. The former refers to providing positive feedback based on outcomes or performance. The second, on the other side is about acknowledging the person’s intrinsic…

Appreciation and recognition. These two words are often used interchangeably and consider them as a similar thing. However, while both are important however, there’s a distinct distinction between them. For those who wish to see their teams flourish and for organizations looking to foster a culture that encourage loyalty, engagement and top efficiency, it’s essential to know the difference.

Recognition is the process of providing positive feedback on the basis of results or performance. Sometimes, it is given in a formal manner like an award, bonus, rise, promotion. Sometimes, recognition is offered more casually: a simple thank you, or a handwritten note. These methods can be effective, especially when they’re executed with a prompt and genuine manner. They can also be motivating and thrilling because everyone wants their efforts to be praised.

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There are limits to recognition. First, it’s based on performance therefore it’s conditional. The second reason is that it’s built on the past. So it’s based on what people have already accomplished. Third, it’s scarce. There’s a finite amount of recognition available to go around — nobody can receive a bonus or get a mention in a memo and it is stressful when a lot of individuals are competing for a limited quantity of recognition. Fourthly, it has to be given by the highest levels. Numerous organizations have established programs that let employees praise each other’s achievements however the main types of acknowledgement (promotions as well as raises and other forms of recognition) typically are awarded by the top leaders.

Recognition that comes with the payment of money can be a good thing research of the London School of Economics found that financial incentives could be detrimental in motivating workers. Based on an analysis of 51 studies, “these incentives may reduce the employee’s desire to finish a task and also gain satisfaction by doing it.”

Appreciation On the other hand is about recognizing the inherent worth of an individual. It’s not about their achievements. It’s the value they bring to an employee and human being.

In simple terms, appreciation is the result of what people do while it’s about who they are.

This is as acknowledgement and appreciation are offered for various motives. Even when individuals achieve in their endeavors, there are bound to encounter challenges and failures during the course of the project. Depending on the particular project the project may not even have tangible results to refer towards. If you are focused on the positive results you have achieved or recognizing your team members and recognition, you are missing out on many occasions to meet and encourage your team members to show appreciation for their contributions.

Here are a few easy ways to show appreciation to your friends and family members:

Listen. One of the most important ways to show respect for those you work with is the most basic: put down your phone, get away from your laptop, and really listen to the people you work with.

Share what you admire about you about them. Making this decision proactively and not just because somebody did something outstanding or because you would like something from them is a powerful way to show appreciation. It will positively impact the perception of your coworkers about them, how you relate to them, and also the overall environment of your team.

Check in. I’m a fan of a saying that is often used to refer to Teddy Roosevelt: “People don’t really care about how well you’re aware of until they understand how much you value them.” Whatever the person who said it, it’s an excellent reminder. Make sure you check in with the people you are working with. If you ask them how they’re doing (and actually saying it) and what challenges they’re being faced to right now will make them feel that you’re interested.

Appreciating employees is particularly important when you’re a manager. According to Glassdoor’s Employee Appreciation Survey 53% of respondents were of the opinion that having more appreciation from their boss could help them remain with their employer for longer – although 68% of them claimed that their boss shows their appreciation in a sufficient way. What’s the lesson? More is always better.