Appletree Answers - Everyday Reinforcement

 Reinforcing employee performance is part of reinforcement theory. Positive reinforcers in particular motivate a person to behave in a certain way, especially when it comes to receiving rewards. Praise, recognition and a pay raise would be good examples of those. 

Core values are one of those things that we want to reinforce on a daily basis because they should be the most valued as they come with an expectation to live by them. 

By living them, we will notice someone doing it well and that allows us all to send them a card describing how they did such a great job and commenting what that looked like with the core value identified. It could be a goal for the quarter, so with a team of 10, each writing 4 cards, the goal could be 40 cards distributed. It would be a great way to practice appreciation and communication as well as to reinforce core values. 

Cisco had a CEO, John Chambers, who instituted a - notify me within 48 hours when an employee or their immediate family became ill or passed away. He learned about the situation, wrote a letter offering concern and extending support. By doing this, he confirmed his commitment to them and acknowledged their individual value to the organization. 

 

Appletree Answers - Newsletters

 I am thinking what the new title for my newsletter should be. I am beginning to think that I will look at my Core Values and pick a word or phrase from there. Why not highlight one Core Value in each issue, incorporating stories about people putting these Core Values to work to advance the purpose for our company? 

Appletree Answers - Recognition and Rewards

 Jack Taylor started Enterprise Leasing on the premise that if he treated his customers and employees well, profits would follow. 

Companies use rewards and recognition to motivate employees and demonstrate that they are appreciated. Often, rewards and recognition take the form of extra compensation for employees who carry out the activities in the role outcomes and meet their objectives. Rewards and recognition can also be given for team-based accomplishments. 

Even the best-trained and well-skilled staff cannot perform well when they are not motivated enough. This is why employee recognition in the workplace has to be an innate part of my company's culture. 

Employee recognition is the acknowledgement of a staff member who has performed exemplary service. This reinforces particular behaviour, practices or activities that result in better performance and positive results. 

It is important for employees to be held in high regard by their peers and that is what makes employee recognition important.  Even so, employee rewards can be as candid as a pat-on-the-back and a genuine compliment. It can also be as simple as a 'thank you' email or friendly greeting at work. 

• This makes employees happier
• that makes them more productive
• there is a feeling of job mastery and that they are fit for their role and for the company

A structured recognition program could look like this:

• All employees must be able to be recipients of recognition - that means include work anniversaries.
• Make sure celebrations are on their milestone date or as close as possible
• Take the time to personalize the reward experience
• If leaning towards a traditional program, seek a provider that can offer a catalogue of gift options
• Provide high-quality gifts