A strong recognition program is an investment that brings multiple benefits to any organization. However, there are a few common factors that can prevent your organization from getting the most out of this investment. Some of these factors can subtly undermine the goals of your recognition program. In this article, we’ll look at the major barriers to expressing recognition at work and how you can easily overcome them. Let’s get started!
Obstacles to expressing recognition at work
When considering implementing an employee recognition program, keep an eye on the following factors:
- Fear of losing power: In some rigid hierarchical structures, managers fear that recognizing the work of their team members will diminish their own authority. This fear can lead to a reluctance to express recognition, even when it is deserved.
- Lack of time of managers: Managers are often overwhelmed by their own tasks and obligations, which reduces their availability to recognize the contributions of employees under their responsibility. Such a situation can lead to an unintentional neglect of recognition of work, despite good intentions.
- Lack of creativity among managers: Some managers may lack ideas on how to effectively recognize employees’ work. This can result in routine or generic recognition that lacks impact.
- Over-Supervision: Excessive control can hamper employees' sense of trust and autonomy. In fact, when every action is scrutinized, managers may be reluctant to recognize employees' efforts.
- Performance culture: In work environments where performance is disproportionately prioritized over employee well-being, recognition can take a back seat. Quantitative goals can stifle qualitative recognition.
- Rise of individualism: A culture focused on individualism can lead employees to prioritize their own accomplishments over those of the team. This can create a competitive environment where recognition is seen as a weakness rather than a strength.
- Jealousy and contempt: In a company where competition is fierce and resources are limited, recognition can create feelings of jealousy or contempt among colleagues. These negative emotions can discourage managers from openly acknowledging successes.
How to overcome obstacles to recognition at work?
Despite these obstacles, it is possible to promote a culture of recognition within your organization. Here are some effective solutions to improve recognition at work:
Choose an effective recognition solution with Accolad
If you are looking to implement an effective and hassle-free employee recognition program, you have come to the right place. Accolad can help you overcome the challenges faced in your organization. Equipped with cutting-edge technology, it allows you to recognize your employees at the right time, regardless of your budget.
Are you overwhelmed by your own tasks? Don’t have enough time to recognize your employees? Don’t worry. With Accolad, you can offer corporate gifts to your employees, even when you’re not there. Simply enter your details on its self-service recognition platform, choose the amount of the Accolad gift you want to give each employee, and add a personal message to your recognition email. Our automated system will send it on the date of your choice. Of course, you can also opt for our turnkey services for your more complex needs, complete support for your gifts and more advanced customization options.
Not sure where to start? Let our experts guide you through the process.
Improve recognition through awareness-raising and training actions
To maximize recognition within your organization, managers and employees need to be educated about its importance. Then, training on best practices can help overcome initial hurdles. You can also encourage managers to be creative in how they recognize employee contributions, which can make recognition more meaningful and memorable.
Encourage a culture and appreciation of diversity of talents
Foster a culture where collaboration and teamwork are valued. This can reduce individualism and encourage mutual recognition. Additionally, recognizing and celebrating the different skills and contributions of team members can promote a sense of inclusion and self-worth.
