Employees are often asked to perform super human acts, which they willingly do, but they are often discouraged when no one notices or says anything about it.  Leaders that encourage and create an environment where people affirm and celebrate one another, build a strong culture where people can reach their highest potential.  It is only when people are performing at this level that a business can truly thrive.

Sharing appreciation should be frequent, specific and on-going.  The responsibility to give recognition does not rest solely in the lap of the leader either.

You Rock!  An organization I worked with decided to create an employee recognition award that was chosen by peers for peers.  For a mere $15, a statue of a hand holding a microphone – think The Voice – helped employees focus on providing excellent service and increased employee engagement at the same time.   Here is how it worked.  The employee that had the statue kept it on their desk and it was up to them to “catch” someone else doing great work.  Rather than hoard or covet the award, employees were quick to catch each other and pass it on.  It encouraged people to be on the lookout for good work.

Here are two activities for peer to peer recognition in a group setting that are low-cost, easy to facilitate and positively impact employee engagement.

Superheros

Provide each person with a sharpie pen and  piece of adhesive flip chart paper to stick on their back like a superhero cape.  Then people move around the room from person to person signing each others capes with affirmations.   There is the element of surprise because you can’t see what the other person is writing.  People are then able to take their capes home to share with their families and even hang on the wall of their work space.

Speed Appreciation 

Ask team members to stand in two concentric circles facing a partner.  There are no materials required, simply eye contact and kind words.  Each person is asked to tell their partner something they appreciate about them and then the other person in the pair does the same.  After 60 seconds the people in the inside of the circle rotate to right and are now paired with a new partner to repeat the process.   This can be repeated as many times as possible.

Having the privilege to observe these appreciation activities, I am amazed at what transpires.  Inevitably, some people are brought to tears as their character and value as not only an employee, but as a human being are highlighted by other people.   People want to contribute and do good work that is valued, and when we take time to affirm each other we can help meet our need for recognition.

And never, never forget the power of a hand-written note to someone telling them they are awesome.   When you give thanks and praise, you make the world a better place.  Try it today.