7 Tips to Help You Get Recognition in the Workplace

Acknowledging someone's accomplishment at work is a form of recognition in the workplace. Companies that show appreciation towards employees create a culture where individuals are more connected with one another, increasing employee engagement. When this happens, productivity levels also increase. This idea may sound simple, obvious even, but recognising the effort of deserving people does not always happen. A 2020 survey shows that Singapore's 47% employment engagement score falls below the global average of 53%.

What Is Recognition in the Workplace?

When workers have done exemplary work, they are given recognition in the workplace. It's the company's way of acknowledging their efforts, motivating them to outperform themselves consistently. When an employee performs better, the company becomes a more outstanding provider of goods and services. A virtuous cycle then takes place, and it starts when workers feel their work is recognised. The employees work on being consistent high-performers, which raises the company's standards and attracts more customers.

Examples of Recognition in the Workplace

There are many ways that a company can recognise the contribution of employees. It can be done by the management team or one's peers. Whether it is done in private or in public, what's important is that it will make the employee feel that their contribution to the company made a difference.

Recognition in the workplace can take different forms. They can be employee recognition gifts like a spot bonus or an increase in the employee's salary. The company can also give personalised gifts to make the employees feel more special. Some examples are a gift cheque to their favourite restaurants, a book from an author they like, or even a vacation package they can take with their families.

The company can also host Recognition Awards Nights for its employees. During the program, they can acknowledge high-performing workers through awards like Employee of the Year, Top Performer, or Best Team Player Award. Celebrating an employee's years with the company can also be an occasion. Employees can receive trophies or plaques that mark the company's milestone years of its service.

Recognition can also be done through a company's internal and external websites or social media channels. It will expand the commendation's reach since customers, partners, and the general public can congratulate them.

Why Is Recognition in the Office Important?

There are many reasons why we seek recognition in the workplace. Some people are motivated when their work is validated. Others feel socially accepted even if their mere participation is noted. How do you like to be recognised at work?

Here are seven tips on discreetly driving attention to your performance. These will help you get the recognition you deserve and remain likeable to your peers.

1. Always stay upbeat in the workplace.

People are drawn to those who consistently display a positive attitude. Being optimistic and upbeat gives the impression that you are easy to work with, a highly valued trait in the workplace. Find opportunities to help your colleagues in big and small ways, whether they work in your team or not. Encourage coworkers who look like they need an extra boost, especially during this period of hybrid set-up. People will notice your natural enthusiasm and seek out to work with you. Pretty soon, your peers will catch on, and your managers will most likely give you the career recognition you deserve.

2. Share the credit with the team.

Build relationships with people at work by praising them for what they have done. Getting the acknowledgement for something is a great way to create a bond with colleagues. There is no such thing as a minor compliment. Even if you are the one who worked most on a project, be creative with the way you can give credit to others. One way to do this well is to think about how you like to be recognised at work and then do the same for your coworkers.

3. Go beyond people's expectations.

Do not be limited by the responsibilities in your job description. Set a good example by doing something more than what is expected of your role. Go the extra mile and collaborate with colleagues on their projects. You can also volunteer for projects in other departments, like the company CSR or getting respondents for the research team. Offer to share your knowledge with coworkers in something you are good at. When you help colleagues level up their skills, your presence is felt in the organisation, making you more indispensable in the workplace.

4. Compliment your colleagues.

When it comes to recognition in the workplace, the adage "give others the recognition you think you would deserve" helps. Look for ways you can sincerely complement the contribution of your coworkers. Not only will your teammates feel good, but they will also look out for ways to compliment you in the future. When this happens, you do your part in creating a culture where hard work is recognised and rewarded.

5. Celebrate your wins.

Highlight your achievements whenever you can, and focus on the wins that are important to the team. After completing a task you worked hard on, offer to treat colleagues to your favourite coffee shop. Another way to celebrate your wins is to announce when you have been assigned to lead a project and then ask for the team's support. That way, you are discreetly showing your colleagues that you are seen as responsible, but you value their help to make you succeed. Whenever you are shown that you are performing well, share the news with your fellow employees, but make sure not to come across as someone obnoxious.

6. Make it a habit to ask for feedback.

If you can manage it, ask your manager for a regular one-on-one, so your immediate superior becomes your ally and mentor. These sessions will help you improve your performance while showing that you care about being a better employee. Your manager will also know how you can be given recognition in the workplace. Set goals and share them with your manager to help them identify how they can support you. It will only be a matter of time before your efforts will be rewarded, and you will be given the recognition you deserve.

7. Keep speaking up.

Come prepared during meetings, whether they are offline or online. Share your thoughts and ideas as you deem appropriate. Research as much as possible on a topic you want to be involved in so you have more confidence speaking up. People will notice when you are seen as someone who adds value to the discussion. You can also give brief but informative updates on what you are working on to keep your colleagues posted. Team meetings are also an excellent time to offer your help to your colleagues and get noticed by your superiors. Recognition in the workplace can also take place when people see you are willing to help others achieve their goals.

To get more ideas on how your hard work can be rewarded in the workplace, look for more Career Advic e at JobStreet. You can also download the JobStreet app (available on Google Play and App Store ) to get career advice on the go, any time of the day.