How to use praise to motivate staff

1. It's a fact

Bishop Fulton J. Sheen, one of America’s foremost Catholic priests, wrote of his deep disappointment about his parents’ lack of affirmation for him when he was young and insecure.

‘I struggled to be a leader in my class and I would come home proudly with holy pictures and medals - but I would never receive one word of praise from my parents.’

Those around you need affirmation. An honest compliment from you, paid at the right time, can work miracles for their self-esteem.

If a compliment can boost the spirit, lack of one from important people can hurt for a long time. Remember this in terms of those with whom you come into contact in the workplace.

2. Here's an idea

Are you one of those managers who find it difficult to hand out praise? If recognising staff is hard for you, try delegating the task. Identify a key employee who is good at or enjoys making people feel good. By formally making that person responsible for ‘employee recognition’, you’ll be free to handle the work that you do best.

3. Research says

Praise can be a strong motivator, but many of us find it hard to handle. …