If there is one thing I’ve learned about giving meaningful and effective recognition to others, is the fact that it must be authentic. Both the recognition and the giver must be real.
Imagine the positive influence that can come when a people-leader has learned to be authentic as an individual and a recognizer of others.
Let’s explore how a leader can become authentic and a real recognition giver, too.
If you want to get recognition strategically connected to your organization’s business plan, then you are going to need an executive sponsor. Having an executive sponsor is your key to getting recognition on the senior leadership table and raising the profile and impact of employee recognition throughout the organization.
But what exactly does an Executive Sponsor do?
Learn about their role, and how they can help you give the boost you need for employee recognition.
It
is important to create a persona or profile of the leader or leaders you report
to for when you need to present to them or gain approval on a proposal. Leaders
think differently than rank-and-file employees. It’s these qualities that set
them apart.
Read
past talks they have given and check out the latest annual reports to gain
insights about them.
Talk
to people who know them the best like their assistants and other managers who
have had dealings with them.
Gather details about their background and where they have worked along with the job positions they have held.
Know
their motivations and pain points that will help you understand their
priorities and how they make decisions.
What
do you know about their personal life, significant others in their life, family
and so forth? What are their hobbies and interest than might give a human
connection for you to relate to?
How
will understanding your leader’s point of view help you with your
recognition strategy and planning?