Purpose: To recognize customer service representatives for customer service excellence and reinforce desired behavior.

 This is a little embarrassing, but, since it happened several years ago, I think I can claim a statute of limitations on it. It was during a holiday party, and we were at the point in the evening when our leadership was announcing our year-end award winners. I felt I was having a banner year, and was more than half expecting to be recognized for it. As the speaker described the contributions and achievements of the soon-to-be awardee, I became more confident that within moments I would be up there shaking hands and posing for photos. Maybe a speech? No, that would be too much. I was so sure, my butt was about two inches out of my chair in anticipation that I would need to stand. Any minute.

You believe your staff is the best. They’re hard working, dedicated, and fun to work with. When was the last time you told them that?

You don’t need an official recognition holiday like Teacher Appreciation Week or National Nurses Week to celebrate your staff. Declare your own unofficial appreciation week and plan a celebration worthy of your awesome staff. We suggest planning something small for every day of the week. That way, everyone can participate in the celebration regardless of which days they work.

Ho, ho, …uh-oh! It’s that time of year again; the time when companies gather to celebrate the year’s achievements together. Year-end celebrations often include some team-building fun along with a little letting loose, and unfortunately sometimes things can get a little too loose for their own good.

Do you know what I just realized? In my 21 years in the professional world, Baudville is the only place I’ve worked that gives formal, year-end awards. Yes, we are in the trophy business, and it is pretty easy for us to get our hands on whatever kinds of awards we need—and engrave on them anything we want right here in the building...but, still. Hmmm. Seems odd. Especially knowing what I know now, which is that these award presentations make a pretty big impression on our staff. The fanfare, the anticipation, the moment in the spotlight: it’s kind of a big deal. And kind of big missed opportunity for those who aren’t taking part in this important employee recognition activity.