Guide to recognition schemes

RECOGNITION PROGRAMMES

Guide to recognition schemes

Recognition schemes need to be carefully managed – in particular the judging process must be fair and transparent – or there is a strong risk they will become divisive and actually demotivate staff. That’s one of the main findings to emerge from new research by Incomes Data Services.

For IDS, transparency around the judging process in recognition schemes is “paramount”, as employee will lose faith if the same people win awards again and again. “In the case of employees who consistently work to a level above that expected of their job, accelerated progression or promotion is likely to be more appropriate response than handing out recognition awards,” the report says.

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Keeping the scheme fresh

No matter how well or often a scheme is publicised, IDS reckons that sooner or later it will need refreshing to ensure its effectiveness. “Most companies find that after a period of time it loses some of its momentum. When the number of nominations being submitted starts to dwindle, it is perhaps time to revisit the scheme and make some changes,” the report says.

What you will find in this report

The 55-page report is divided into three main sections:

1. Analysis

Insights into:

  • Why recognition matters

  • Scheme eligibility

  • The nomination procedure

  • Levels of recognition

  • Judging nominations

  • Award types and values

  • Promoting the scheme

2. Case studies

The report features six case studies:

  • Aviva UK

  • Capita

  • The Co-operative Group

  • Crawley Borough Council

  • Hogg Robinson Group

  • Princess Alexandra Hospital

3. Guide to suppliers

  • Details of the services offered by 27 providers of non-cash incentives

  • Checklist of key issues to consider when selecting a provider.

Want to know more?

Title: “Employee recognition schemes”, IDS HR Studies 914, March 2010.

Availability: IDS HR Studies is a fortnightly journal and online service analysing employers' HR policies, procedures and practices. For subscription enquires contact customer services on: 0845 600 9355. To subscribe online click here.

Incomes Data Services is the “leading UK information and research service on employment issues, providing a range of publications for employers, trade unions, government departments and other agencies”. For more details visit www.incomesdata.co.uk.