Recognize Your Employees (Don't Mail It In)

Recently, I received the Meritorious Civilian Service Medal for my previous 5 years of service as the Chief Counsel of Letterkenny Army Depot (LEAD). At this stage in my career, as a military retiree and a practicing lawyer for 14 years, I've been recognized and been presented awards numerous times. This, together with the fact that I've always thought of myself as someone that is intrinsically motivated to work hard and make a positive impact rather than someone that was motivated by external recognition, led me to believe that it really wasn't a big deal. The folks at LEAD could've just mailed the medal to my house, and even included a nice letter from the Commander as an added touch. But part of the reason it took so long to receive, was that they requested I come into the office to receive it, and rightfully so. More than the medal itself, the recognition from my peers at LEAD, the Commander, the Deputy, the Chief of Staff, and my former legal team, really reminded me how important it is for leaders to recognize the hard work of their teams. It doesn't have to be a flashy medal or an expensive gift, but taking the time to gather your team and recognize one of your own is an often overlooked way to build goodwill and trust amongst your team and send a message that you care as a leader. And in my experience, it's what great leaders do! I've been fortunate in my military career to serve under many great leaders. Colonel Ricky Allbritton, who presented me the award the other day, is one of those great leaders, and probably (hopefully) the last military one that I'll ever serve under. But it's been an honor to serve as both a Soldier and a Civilian for the Army, and it feels good to know that my former team is in the charge of such great leadership. So for any managers striving to become great leaders, the simple take away here is, "don't mail it in!" Be present. Take the time to recognize your team, in person. If you show up for them, I guarantee they will show up for you!