Learning Corner: Recognition That Sticks

Estimated Time to Complete: 15 minutes

Objective:
To give recognition that names exactly what someone did and why it mattered, so it builds motivation and shows others what good looks like.

Materials Needed:

• A list of your team members

• Five minutes a day this week

Activity Steps:

1. Look for it (5 minutes)
Think about the last two weeks. For each person, write down one specific thing they did that helped.

2. Make it specific (5 minutes)
Turn each note into a sentence: what they did and the difference it made. "Thanks for staying late" becomes "When you rebuilt the report Tuesday night, the client got the numbers in time for their board meeting."

3. Ask how they like it (3 minutes)
Some people love public praise. Others prefer a private note. If you're not sure, ask.

4. Deliver one a day (2 minutes a day)
Share one piece of recognition each day this week.

Key Takeaways:

• Specific recognition teaches people what to repeat.

• Timing matters. Sooner is better.

• Knowing how someone likes to be recognized makes it land.

Reflection Prompt:

When was the last time someone recognized your work in a way that stuck with you? What made it different?

Want help bringing this to your team? Book a free 30-minute conversation with Tony.