Ten Simple Ways to Make your Followers feel Recognized and Valued

When a person feels recognized and connected to the larger group,he knows viscerally, not just intellectually, that he has made a contribution others value, not only does this motivate him to do more and try harder, but it instills a desire to look out for the larger group…. It leads a person to do the right thing even when no one is looking.

In our busy culture it is easy to overlook opportunities to acknowledge others. Noticing the positive is a daily challenge. In this article, these ten tips for promoting recognition and value with the people you influence would be discussed:

1. Recognize effort, not just results. Of course, you want the results, but if you recognize ongoing effort, results will more likely ensue. Cheerleading works.
2. Notice details. Generic acknowledgment pales next to specific recognition.
3. Try, as much as possible, to provide recognition in person. E-mail packs much less of a punch than human moments.
4. In meetings—and everywhere—try to make others look good, not bad. Scoring points off the backs of others usually backfires.
5. As a manager, you should know that the self-esteem of each employee is perhaps your most important asset. Recognition is a powerful tool to preserve self-esteem.
6. Acknowledge people’s existence! Try always to say hello, give a nod of the head, a high five, a smile in passing. It’s withering to pass someone and feel as if that person didn’t even see you.
7. Tap into the power of positive feedback. Remember that positive feedback often consolidates gains better than learning from mistakes.
8. Monitor progress. Performance improves when a person’s progress toward a goal is monitored regularly.
9. Remember, as a manager, the more you recognize others, the more you establish the habit of recognition of hard work and progress as part of the organizational culture.
10. Bring in the marginalized people. In most organizations, about 15 percent of people feel unrecognized, misunderstood, devalued, and generally disconnected. Not only is recognition good for that 15 percent to help them feel valued, it is good for the other 85 percent as well, as it boots the positive energy across the organization.

Finally. It is worthy to note that Recognition is so powerful because it answers a fundamental human need, the need to feel valued for what we do” and as leaders we are in a unique position to offer or withhold that recognition. 

How do you make others feel valued? share your experience in the comment Section.                                                                                                        -(Credit: LeadershipNow)