Recognition Tips for Everyone

Ideas to Show Recognition

There are many ways to show appreciation and recognition for your colleagues. Here are a few ideas:

  • Treat a colleague to coffee.
  • Send birthday, anniversary or holiday cards.
  • Say something to make someone else smile.
  • Take time to listen, but disengage in gossip.
  • Celebrate outstanding projects and achievements.
  • Nominate colleagues for awards.
  • Say "thank you", write a thank you note, or send a letter of appreciation.
  • Lend a hand to mundane tasks.
  • Be pleasant and smile.
  • Promote appropriate humor.
  • Actually take time to just talk.
  • Take time to find out about colleagues after work hobbies/activities.
  • Buy a small gift or leave a treat on their desk in appreciation.
  • Plan occasional extravagances, i.e. pizza, doughnuts, a picnic.
  • Plan a team recreation activity.
  • Use or ask for ideas in pressure situations, then act on a suggestion.
  • Respect others wishes, sensitivities and preferences.
  • Defend against hostile or negative comments about others.
  • Encourage someone that helps someone else.
  • Show your confidence in your colleagues.
  • Share information.
  • Be a real person.
  • Send notes of appreciate about your boss to your boss's boss.

Informal Recognition

There are a few other ways to provide some informal recognition to colleagues on campus.

Happiness Appreciation Award

Consider nominating them for for a Happiness Appreciation Award as part of International Day of Happiness. The nomination window is the first two weeks of March

Wellness Champion

Do you know a faculty or staff member who consistently contributes to creating a culture of well-being on campus? Nominate them as a Wellness Champion. Nominations are ongoing.