Incentra Insights

The healthcare industry is still transforming, and healthcare workers have experienced tremendous stress over the past several years. One thing has become abundantly clear. It’s more important than ever to ensure that your employee recognition program reflects the values of your organization and contributes to both culture and workforce engagement. But in light of all the recent challenges, what are the best ways to show your employees appreciation for their commitment and efforts?

In these turbulent times, it's helpful to reflect on the fundamental principles of healthcare delivery including recognition for all your dedicated healthcare workers.

Back to Basics

Recently, IHIRE, a healthcare recruitment company, reflected on the psychology behind employee recognition. The psychology of employee recognition is deeply rooted in the principle of positive reinforcement. When employees receive recognition for their hard work and dedication, it reinforces these positive behaviors, increasing the likelihood they will continue to perform well. But this recognition must be meaningful to your employees.

Here are some ideas to ensure your recognition program reflects what healthcare employees value:

• Thank You Cards - Taking the time to write a genuine message of appreciation for those staff members who have gone above and beyond is a simple yet meaningful way to lift their spirits and remind them that their hard work has not gone unnoticed.
  
• Employee of the Month - Implementing an "Employee of the Month" award can boost morale and create a healthy level of competition among employees.
  
  
• Involvement in Decision Making - By giving employees a voice, they feel valued and heard, which can lead to increased job satisfaction and loyalty.
  
  
• Performance-Based Perks - To show appreciation for their employees' hard work, healthcare organizations can offer special perks such as paid time off or discounts on products and services.
  
  
• Point-Based Reward Systems - A token economy, also known as a point-based reward system, can be another effective way to recognize and appreciate healthcare employees.
  
  
• Verbal Praise - Recognizing someone's hard work and achievements in front of their peers can inspire others to strive for success and foster a sense of appreciation and gratitude among the team.
  
  
• Shadowing Leaders - This shadowing experience can provide valuable insights for both parties and create a sense of understanding and appreciation for each other's roles.
  
  
• Team Building Celebrations - This type of celebration creates a sense of camaraderie among colleagues, but also serves as an opportunity for leadership to show their appreciation and recognize the hard work of all team members.
  
  
• Professional Development Opportunities - By offering professional development opportunities, organizations can not only support their employees' growth but also recognize and appreciate their dedication to the field.
  
  
• Flexible Work Schedules - This allows employees to have more control over their work-life balance and attend personal events or appointments without having to take time off.
  
  
• Peer-to-Peer Healthcare Employee Recognition Program - Implementing a peer-to-peer recognition program allows employees to nominate and recognize their colleagues for their outstanding work or contributions to the organization.

Revamping Your Recognition Program

It may be time to transform your healthcare worker recognition program. Our healthcare-focused technology-driven system will excite your employees, positively impact your patients, and improve your HCAHPS scores. We can help you meet the needs of your people, brand, patients, and culture. Give us a call.