By Daniel Hunter
Employers are likely to have a formal way of saying 'thank you' to employees, new research from HR specialists XpertHR reveals.
Based on a survey of 195 UK organisations, the research reveals that 61% of organisations operate an employee recognition scheme, while half of those that do not do so are looking at introducing a scheme in the future.
Schemes are most commonly used to encourage employees to "go the extra mile" and to boost staff engagement, with the majority of organisations setting these as an objective of their scheme saying that it does so.
The most common forms of award are a certificate or plaque, and retail or gift vouchers. Vouchers awarded by the survey respondents were worth up to £250, although the median payment was £50.
Three-quarters of the survey respondents reported some problems with their recognition schemes, so based on these, those introducing or reviewing a scheme would be advised to:
- Ensure that employee interest in the scheme is maintained;
- Regularly encourage managers to make nominations;
- Review the budget for awards on a regular basis; and
- Think about the impact on employees who do not receive an award.
"Recognition schemes can be a useful tool to aid engagement and boost motivation among employees. However, employers should ensure that the schemes are monitored for fairness and their ability to meet objectives," XpertHR Pay and Benefits editor Sheila Attwood said.
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