Through online recognition programs, managers and employees are now able to easily recognize one individual or a group of individuals publicly -- at any time and from any place. They are doing so by sending personalized thank you notes by email to awarding points that can be redeemed for rewards ranging from silverware to all expense paid vacations.
"Companies are encouraging their employees and managers to go online, send thank you cards by email and participate year-round in recognizing each other," said John DuCharme, product manager, recognition solutions at Maritz Incentives, a leading provider of employee incentive programs. "Sending a simple thank you creates a validating experience for employees and can cement a positive, long-term employer-employee relationship. Sometimes, just saying thank you in a public forum is all an employee needs to stay productive and happy. It''s amazing how many employees never get thanked for the good work they do. Even in a struggling economy, employers need to find ways to show their appreciation, especially if they are freezing salaries or foregoing year-end bonuses."
Recognition or incentive programs enable companies to reward and recognize dedicated employees and managers, while also serving as a recruitment and retention tool. Employees can receive points from managers and co-workers for a job well done, for work ranging from a great sales presentation to working over time on a special project. Employees can then use those very same points towards the redemption of rewards. Some of the most popular incentive program rewards include: electronics, clothing, household goods, jewelry, vacation packages, transportation, hotel stays, event tickets, dining, sporting goods and concierge services.
Maritz Incentives has introduced RecognitionManager, a new online employee motivation program designed to help employees and managers recognize and reward each other on an ongoing basis. It allows employees to go directly online, whether at work, at home or on vacation to redeem rewards, receive recognition and give instant recognition from their company web site. RecognitionManager allows employees and managers to instantly recognize each other in a variety of ways from sending specially designed e-cards to awarding points that can be used to redeem rewards.
"Most employees crave appreciation for a job well done from their managers and co-workers and seem to enjoy the ease, immediacy and instant gratification provided by online redemption of rewards. At the same time, online recognition programs help employers keep costs down while increasing good will," said DuCharme. "It''s a great feeling when someone you work with just says ´thank you."