“1001 Ways to Reward Employees” by Bob Nelson

First published in 1994, this book should be a mandatory bookshelf fixture for any manager at any level, anywhere. It is most effective if read through entirely, but can be picked off the shelf sporadically and flipped through to come across many different, fun and neat ideas to motivate, recognize and appreciate anyone you work with anytime.

Everybody wants to be recognized and appreciated. It is that simple. Knowing that there is little argument about this fact, it only makes sense that managers should take advantage of this simple point to get more out of their employees. The bonus about doing and creating recognition programs and acts is that it brings fun and happiness into the workplace. Who wouldn’t want this benefit? It has long been shown that monetary rewards do not necessarily motivate, so what does? And how do you do it?

There are many different kinds of rewards and recognition. Nelson divides "1001 Ways to Reward Employees" into 6 parts and then sub-categories within those parts, citing industry examples under each different category.

Part I: Day-to Day Recognition
Personal Praise & Recognition
Written Praise & Recognition
Electronic Praise & Recognition
Public Praise & Recognition

Part II: Informal Intangible Recognition
Information, Support & Involvement
Autonomy & Authority
Flexible Work Hours & Time Off
Learning & Career Development
Manager Availability & Time

Part III: Tangible Recognition & Rewards
Outstanding Employee & Achievement Awards
Cash, Cash Substitutes & Gift Certificates
Nominal Gifts, Merchandise & Food
Special Privileges, Perks & Employee Services

Part IV: Group Recognition, Rewards & Activities
Group Recognition & Rewards
Fun, Games & Contests
Celebrations, Parties & Special Events
Field Trips & Travel

Part V: Rewards for Specific Achievements
Sales Revenue
Customer Service
Employee Suggestions
Productivity & Quality
Attendance & Safety

Part VI: Formal Organizational Reward Programs
Multilevel reward Programs & Point Systems
Company Benefits & Perks
Employee & Company Anniversaries
Charity & Community Service
Company Stock & Ownership

With so many successful examples given it is hard to believe that the number one complaint of employees is still that they do not feel they are recognized nearly enough. Somehow it seems difficult for people to recognize others for their hard work. Many people talk about their fear and avoidance of conflict and negative situations, yet unfortunately I feel that this fear and avoidance can often go too far with positive reinforcement as well. The nice thing about this book is that it gives such a variety of ways to make people feel good about themselves and their jobs. Of course not all methods are applicable to all situations but the sheer volume of ideas makes it a great reference book.