Catch People Doing Something Right

The Power of Acknowledgment

With the back-to-back meetings and the frenetic pace of work these days, we can find ourselves focused primarily on finding issues and troubleshooting them, including "troubleshooting people". But what if we flipped the script? What if we consciously sought out instances of excellence, where people are getting it right?

Picture yourself actively looking for opportunities to commend your team's and your colleague's actions and results. And instead of reserving recognition for some formal evaluation, you're celebrating the small victories along the way – a task delivered ahead of schedule, a novel idea that might solve a thorny problem, or exceptional customer care. This simple shift in your focus infuses the environment (and you!) with positive energy, bolsters morale, and nurtures a greater sense of belonging.

At the heart of this approach lies a concept you already know about – positive reinforcement. When we catch someone doing it right, and we acknowledge it, we can set off a chain reaction of motivation, inspiration, and engagement.

1. Precision: Do less of the generic praises, like "good job," and aim for specificity. For instance, "I truly appreciate how you handled that client issue this morning. You demonstrated empathy and creative problem-solving with them. As a result, their issue was resolved and we have a strong relationship with them now." By pinpointing the exact behavior we admire, we not only validate it, we encourage more of it. For more about how to give good feedback, I encourage you to check out the SBI Feedback Model.
2. Timing: Don't reserve recognition only for formal meetings or occasions. A timely handwritten note, a thoughtful email, or a public acknowledgment during a meeting can work wonders. "Your attention to detail in the financial report saved others invaluable time in creating the finished documents. Thank you!" Such gestures serve as catalysts for sustained excellence.
3. Magnify: recognizing accomplishments elevates their significance. Whether it's highlighting project milestones, lauding a well put together sales pitch, or applauding consistent teamwork, sharing these wins can foster a culture of collective achievement. Witnessing such recognition publicly can inspire others to replicate it, perpetuating a virtuous cycle of acknowledgment and emulation. One caveat about public recognition ..... be sure the person you are recognizing is comfortable with public recognition. Some shy away from the spotlight and respond better to recognition given in a more strategic way. For example, an email sent to selected upper management that identified the person and the positive action or result.

Further, positive recognition transcends productivity metrics. Recognizing individuals for their accomplishments fosters deeper relational connections, forging bonds between people. When we acknowledge another's efforts, we build a connection. Trust deepens, collaboration improves, and workplaces become places of mutual respect.

The next time you catch someone doing something right, even if small from your perspective, take a moment to acknowledge it with them. Your words of appreciation might just be the catalyst that takes them toward even greater heights. Your spirit of acknowledgement will have a positive impact on you.