Recognition is a key motivational tool because it drives human behavior. There is a high probability that individuals will build engagement with each other and perform at peak efficiency. That is where custom awards come into play.
Custom awards go beyond the typical “run-of-the-mill” trophies and certificates. Custom recognitions have more meaning, and they can have a powerful impact on people. Custom awards are created with the person in mind and the values, accomplishments, and personality of the individual being recognized.
The real value is in the psychological impact of custom awards on the people that receive them and how they motivate, engage others, and create an engaging workplace culture.
Why is Recognition Important at such a Psychological Level?
Recognition meets basic human needs around belonging and esteem. According to Abraham Maslow, esteem needs: respect from others and self-respect, motivate human behavior.
When people are recognized, they feel seen and valued, which leads to greater confidence and motivation to continue their efforts. Research shows that employees who receive regular recognition are far more productive, engaged, and willing to stay with their organizations.
How Do Custom Awards Amplify This Effect?
Custom awards amplify recognition by making it personal and unique. A standard, off-the-shelf award can feel impersonal or routine, diminishing the motivational value. With custom awards, time is taken to customize the award’s messaging, design, and signifying meaning. This process:
- Demonstrates to the recipient that their specific actions and contributions are recognized
- Creates a lasting symbol of achievement and is personally meaningful
- Reinforces the organization’s cultural values in how recognition is provided
A custom award, properly personalized, holds more emotional value and creates a stronger connection between the giver and the recipient. This personal connection increases the chances that the recognition received will be a memory that is important to the recipient.
When Are Custom Awards Effective?
Custom awards are best when they are timely, genuine, and relevant. Recognition needs to happen soon after the accomplishment or behavior that is being recognized. This recognition must also have an intrinsic understanding of what is valuable to the recipient.
Organizations that succeed with custom awards typically create a clear understanding of the criteria for recognition and develop a habit of habitually celebrating successes.
When recognition is framed as a culture that develops over time and repeated shared experience, the total value for motivation is constantly building.
What Makes for a Successful Custom Award?
There are a few components that are important to make custom awards meaningful and powerful:
Personalization: Recognition should include the recipient’s name, something specific about the achievement, and, if possible, a personal message.
Quality: Use components and design to evoke value and implied significance.
Meaning: The award has to have meaning beyond the award itself, based on values and achievements that the recipient and organization care about.
Presentation: Make giving something special, not just typical.
Even something simple like customizing the engraved inscriptions or designing a special shape can elevate how the award is perceived in value.
Takeaways
- Recognition fulfills basic psychological needs, e.g., respect and belonging.
- Custom awards enhance recognition by being personal, meaningful, and memorable.
- Employees who receive meaningful recognition can often perform and stay longer.
- Successful custom awards are timely, genuine, personal, and well presented.
- Custom awards help develop a culture of ongoing recognition over time, and so build motivation over time.
The investment in custom awards for personal recognition is an investment in engagement, morale, and success. By understanding the importance of recognition and how to make it effective, organizations can create a meaningful experience that truly recognizes an individual’s or team’s achievement.