Recognition or Entitlement?

How regular and predictable are your employee celebrations? Do you have a party on Friday if your team meets your goals? If so, you may be a habitual recognizer. The danger therein is that what is intended to be a “thanks” can become expected, or a sense of entitlement.

Let’s say you spring for lunch on Friday as a ‘treat’. It is well received, and becomes more frequent, then every Friday. People stop bringing their own lunches, and then, if the time comes when you are unable to continue, it is as if something is getting taken away from them, and is now viewed negatively. However, it’s important that you show your appreciation to your team.

Solution? Vary your recognition. Have lunch one time. Buy lottery tickets the next time. Take the team to the ballgame the next time. Have different things that are not predictable, but are fun, different, and let the team know that you care and are appreciative.