What employer doesn't want to increase productivity?  There is one very simple, tried-and-true way to accomplish this that is often overlooked.  If you desire to see an increase in your staff productivity, start by focusing on the positive and taking time to recognize individual achievements.  Has one of your employees recently completed a degree or certification program?  Reward and encourage them by acknowledging their accomplishments.  Has a particular department out-performed itself?  Make a big deal out of it.  Do your employees show a loyalty and dedication to their work despite challenging circumstances?  Praise them for it.

We all like to hear positive reinforcement for a job well done.  But sometimes the workplace just becomes so hectic that we forget how important it can be to productivity.  CLO magazine addresses a similar thought in a recent article.  Click here to read it for yourself.  Why are we so quick to forget how important acknowledgement can be?  We often get tied up in the details of what to improve upon rather than being thankful and appreciative for the progress that has already been made. 

Here's the catch....isn't there always a catch?  The praise, acknowledgement, and recognition must be genuine.  You can't just make stuff up.  "And the cleanest desk award goes to...." Acknowledgement like that isn't going to help anyone feel more inspired, motivated, or dedicated.  But genuine praise and recognition can do just that.  When an employee feels appreciated for the job they do and the contribution they make, they feel more connected, loyal, and motivated.  So find something good to focus on today and offer some words of recognition to the folks who deserve it!