Thursday, December 22, 2011

‘Tis the Season of Giving

This time of year is a time of giving and who better to give to than those that keep your business running?  Although for many the holidays are the busiest and most stressful times of the year, it is important to make time to provide your employees with the recognition they deserve.

Something as little as a card shows your biggest assets that despite the craziness of this time of year, you still recognize and appreciate all that they contribute to the team.   Be sure when deciding what to give that you take into account the fact that not everyone celebrates the same holidays.  If you have a small group of employees, it can mean a lot to a person that you are aware of what holidays they do celebrate and give a gift that expresses that holiday.  For a larger organization, choosing gifts and greeting cards with a winter theme would be an appropriate option.

This time of year also provides a great opportunity to bring the team together.  Holiday parties are a great way to do so but putting a little imagination in the planning can make a world of difference.  Holding a potluck where everyone brings in a dish of their cultural background is a great way to bring everyone’s backgrounds together. Gift exchanges and “secret Santa” type games can be a fun way to bring the team together especially when the types of gifts are creatively chosen.  Whatever you choose to do will add value and will encourage commitment and loyalty among your employees. 

Happy Holidays Everyone!

Friday, December 9, 2011

Be in the Know!

Sometimes the best way to learn how to improve the atmosphere of your office is to simply do your research.  Lucky for you, Herndon Recognition has created a section on our website dedicated to just that.  “Our Knowledge Base” is your one-stop-shop for white papers, case studies and recommended books that share interesting and important information that will expand your knowledge on employee morale while providing you with the necessary tools in creating a positive environment in the workplace.

What often times is overlooked in an employee recognition program is the importance of the presentation, timing and the objectives of the program itself.   What is the goal of your program and even though the gesture is coming from a genuine place, are you relaying that to your employees?  Our “White Papers” section not only provides you information on why employee recognition programs work but also includes information on what pieces of the program truly make it successful.  In addition, while exploring our “Case Studies” section, you will examine the core of what motivates employees.  With a better understanding of your employees, you can provide an even more impactful recognition program.

If you’re looking for more tips and tricks to motivate your employees, try picking up some of our recommended books.  Under “Our Picks”, we’ve put together a sampling of our favorite books that not only share innovative and inexpensive ways to improve the workplace atmosphere but also how to improve results.

Although, we’ve made an effort to provide you with an extensive library of information on our website, don’t forget our phone lines are always open.  If you are ready to go to the next level with an excellent recognition program that fits your needs and budget, we are a here to take you there. Give us a call!

Friday, December 2, 2011

Coffee Break!

Winter is just around the corner and with the cold gloomy weather becoming more frequent, the atmosphere around the office can often times get just as chilly.  One easy, low cost way to boost employee morale is to treat them to a round of coffee (and/or tea for those who prefer).  Whether you take individual orders or set up a station in the lunch room, providing this small gesture of appreciation can make a world of difference.  Not only will they appreciate the employee recognition but it will give them that extra kick to work more efficiently.
 
There are plenty of other ways just like this that simply say “thanks” to those who keep your business going and the unexpected gestures make an even bigger impact.  The best way to find out what your employees would like is to simply get to know them.  Take a couple of minutes out of your day to ask your employee what they have planned for the weekend or how their families are doing.  It also is important to be observant.  Take a look at their desks and chances are you’ll discover some of their interests by their desk décor alone.  If you have a lot of employees in your office, make notes if you have to so that when they close a big deal or finish an important project, you’ll know just what to do.

For other low to no cost ways to recognize your employees, check out our Employee Recognition Solutions on our website.