This page contains the resources that I have found useful in my personal and professional life. Admittedly, it is an eclectic list. It contains everything from quotes and books that I like to podcasts, videos, and slideshows.
If you don’t want to scroll through the entire list, you can click on one of the links below and filter the resources by specific category.
I will update this list as I discover new resources. If you have a resource you think I should add, please email me.
Notice what they read, photos of friends and family they have on display, where they go and what they do for lunch and after work, interests shared in conversations. All of these details will help you with personalizing the recognition you give to them. Allow this to be a natural, immersive experience versus appearing to be stalking them!
Be all ears on and off work time. Join employees in the cafeteria. Visit and cheer on a company sports team game. You’ll discover gems of interests and expressions of passion for things you would not normally know. You can draw upon these great insights for better ways to recognize your employees.
Create an informal sit-down opportunity and learn about an individual’s goals and what motivates them at work. When the comfort level is present, ask them what they like and don’t like with the recognition they receive from you. Discover their preferred frequency of recognition and how they best like to be appreciated.
You likely will find these nifty gadgets in the most unusual of places. You might be at a country market or specialty gift store. Check out Pinterest for unique home, office, and technology gadget and gizmo ideas you can buy online. Some things are just a respectful joke or toy items to be played with. Others are quite original and useful. Make sure to accompany any gadget gifts you give people with a fun and acknowledging message. All work and no play can make us all a little dull at times!
By holding frequent one-on-one meetings with each of your staff you will capture great examples of performance that merits immediate or formal recognition. This will also give you an opportunity to get to know your team members better and understand their personality and recognition preferences. Remember recognition is strengthened when you build positive relationships.
Whether a birthday or workplace celebration, a decorated cake with a message on it can be shared with almost everyone. Consider ice cream cakes in the summer. Make note of any personal allergy or diet restrictions and accommodate with a substitute treat.
Be on the lookout for any useful gadget or device that will help someone. Listen and keep your eyes open for what someone really needs. Besides stores, even trade show give-aways spark some original ideas. And you’ll even find them at art and craft fairs.
Get kazoos, party clappers and horns for your employees and allow your team members to “blow their own horn” when no one else is. Towards the end of the day or at an appropriate break time, create some fun ruckus in harmonious unison to boost team spirit and morale.
Keep your eyes wide open for those unique gift items that fit a person’s interests perfectly. Or you might find a gift or knick-knack that is associated with the positive actions the person displayed, their wonderful attitude, or the achievement you want to recognize. These items are like finding recognition gold!