preview

Recognition and Reward Paper

Better Essays

CORPORATE LEADERSHIP COUNCIL® MARCH 2006 www.clc.executiveboard.com LITERATURE KEY FINDINGS Creating an Effective Reward and Recognition Program Key Finding 1: Approximately 90% of companies maintain some type of reward and recognition program. The majority of companies use these programs to create a positive work environment, improve employee morale, and motivate high performance. Research suggests that when designed and implemented properly, reward and recognition positively affects an organization’s bottom line. The Majority of Companies Maintain a Reward and Recognition Program According to a 2003 survey conducted by WorldatWork and the National Association for Employee Recognition (NAER), the majority of companies maintain …show more content…

Recently published literature reveals that there are several key components of any effective reward and recognition program. Multiple authors argue that programs missing any one of these key components will, at best, fail to engage employees, and at worst alienate employees. In fact, according to Bob Nelson, the author of 1001 Ways to Reward Employees, some forms of awards can hurt organizations by promoting a culture of entitlement. Additional research reveals that programs that are impersonal or reward too few people may alienate employees. These key 14,15,16 components and case examples of their influence are detailed below: 17 SSMART REWARDS Jim Brintnall, author of What Make a Good Recognition Reward?, uses the acronym SSMART to advise employers how to design an effective program. The acronym is detailed below:17 Supports Organizational Goals and Values Sincere and Simple Meaningful Adaptable Relevant Timely Component #1: Link Rewards to Company Strategies and Goals Reward and recognition programs must connect the needs and expectations of the workforce with the company’s overall goals and strategies. A program that reinforces important company values and goals will encourage employees to act in line with such goals and emphasize the importance of achieving these goals. Alternatively, rewards which do not connect with organizational goals may convey a misleading message and encourage employees to act in a manner that does not facilitate the

Get Access