What Makes It Personal?
The secret to making it personal lies in choosing a product that is exclusive to the recipient. It should be something that reflects both the recipient's personality and interests. The award must also symbolize the achievement. For example: A manager wants to reward one of his sales people for exceeding the quota for the year. He knows that this employee has a love for sailing, so he chooses an award in the shape of a sailboat. The award has dual meaning - it reflects the employee's accomplishment and his personal interests.

Another way you can add personal meaning to an award is in the presentation. When planning the event, keep in mind that not everyone likes being singled out in front of a large group. For some individuals, it may be better to recognize them alone or in a smaller group - perhaps with just family and immediate co-workers present. Honor individuals based on their preference.

Research has shown that recognition has the highest impact when it is presented by the recipient's manager or someone that knows them well. According to Bob Nelson - recognition expert and author, "People view themselves as working more for other people than for organizations - and it's those people they work for and with that can most make recognition meaningful and special." The people Nelson refers to are managers!

Making recognition personal doesn't have to be difficult. Remember the key elements of personal recognition using the acronym 'SIMPLE':