Build Employee Recognition within Remote Teams

 

Nearly 80% of remote-capable workers are working from home. And for many remote and hybrid workers, the distance away from the office and peers has created a widespread sense of detachment. A recent Gallup poll indicates that many remote workers feel disconnected from their company’s mission and values. Disconnected employees often feel less satisfied in their job and are more likely to resign. On the flipside, employees with strong connections to their workplace – whether in-person or virtually – are more likely to collaborate, mentor others, think creatively, and ultimately stay with the company longer.

For companies serious about strengthening their teams’ connections, employee recognition is often an important element. Employee recognition programs can look very different from company to company, and it is important to understand the needs and motivations of your team before launching a plan. However, these three components can help to form a strong foundation as you began developing your employee recognition program.

Mission Mindset

An organization’s mission is the heart of its culture. It’s the “why” for employees who may be asking themselves if their work matters. It can also provide the framework to determine when and how to recognize employees. Is a team member moving the company’s mission forward? Do they embody the company’s values in the way they treat colleagues and customers? Are they taking action to align with the mission beyond their typical job requirements? Remaining mission-minded provides leadership teams with opportunities to recognize employees while communicating that everyone has value and the potential to make an impact.

Public Praise

It’s easy for virtual teams to feel underappreciated when communication is limited. Remote workers often miss out on the casual conversations that take place in-person, and often receive less one-on-one time with their supervisors. Without an open dialogue and public recognition, remote teams may feel unappreciated, or as if their work has gone unnoticed. Creating a system to share public praise can help employees feel seen and valued. This communication can be as simple as a shout-out during a group chat or a more formal ceremony – often a combination of the two works best.

Reward Good Work

It’s true that a kind word can go a long way but providing a tangible “thank you” can often take the sentiment a step further. Many companies save these rewards to celebrate annual milestones such as anniversaries or end-of-year sales quotas. However, establishing an on-going recognition program can help to strengthen connections all year long. Employee recognition incentives can include gift cards, company perks such as paid time off, or operate on a points system that allows employees to choose their own reward from a digital company e-store. Regardless of the format, it is important that the rewards resonate with employees and are something they will want and enjoy.

Getting Started

Everyone wants to feel that their work matters. It’s important for companies and leadership teams to share appreciation and praise often and consistently, but reaching remote teams often includes unique challenges. Developing an employee recognition program that includes open communication and rewards achievements can help to boost employee satisfaction as your build an employee-first culture.

As you begin to envision what an employee recognition program might look like within your organization check out these Five Tips to Strengthen Employee Experience through Incentives or contact our team to learn more about building a unique program for your team!