Hmmm... We can all relate to this initial statement.  At some point in our careers we've had this same thought, albeit in slightly more colorful language.  But as managers, the one area where this disconnect is most damaging is in the area of employee recognition.

A recent Maritz Poll* found a significant gap between how employees are currently recognized in the workplace and how they actually want to be recognized:

• Only 27% who want to be recognized by non-cash incentives are recognized that way.
• Only 27% who want to be recognized by a symbolic award are recognized that way.
• Only 29% who want to be recognized by a cash bonus are recognized that way.
• Only 30% who want to be recognized by a recognition event are recognized that way.
• Only 40% who want to be recognized by written praise are recognized that way.

In addition, even though 70 percent of employees receive verbal praise – the most prevalent form of recognition – only 49 percent of them want it; and 21percent of those who actually want verbal praise still aren’t getting it from their companies.

On the Crystal D website, there is a wealth of information on how to recognized and reward employees.  Perhaps the most helpful piece in regards to the Maritz poll is the guide on Presentation Tactics for Employee Recognition.

The most compelling reasons for learning how to recognize employees effectively are productivity based.  Employees satisfied with their recognition program are more likely to invest in their company and feel more valued as an employee.  The Maritz poll found that these employees are: