Simplicity of Recognition is Priceless...

With our nation and state economic roller coaster, we've been cutting back and saving every penny possible-at home and in the workplace. As an employer in the Logistics Industry, it becomes harder and harder to balance the company's checkbook while providing effective associate recognition programs. There is still HOPE no matter how tough the economic situation may be...let me explain.

This past weekend I lost my little best friend, my dog. She fled after our gardener left the gate open. I had her since she was a tiny 6 week old pup. She never wanted an expensive treat, a fancy pillow to sleep, nor fancy dog food. All she ever wanted was for me to recognize her, provided food and a warm place to sleep along with the simplicity of a pat on the back. I noticed that when I did those things she demonstrated her happiness by wagging her tail rapidly and would almost smile, if she could. When I'd wake up or arrived home, she would always wait for me by the door so I could pat and acknowledge her. In return, my dog had always been there for me in good and bad times. During tragic moments in my life, when my kids were off with friends and I was home alone, she would sit next to me to keep me company. She was always there when I got ready for work, as cooked in the kitchen, and as I would fall asleep for the night... she was always there. She was never too far and tried to walk along side of me as much as she could~I sure miss her.

In the workplace, acknowledgement and recognition is not so different. One might not realize the importance of greeting someone with a “Good Morning, Hello, or a How are you?” How about when an associate finishes projects early, when co-workers help each other, or when an associate goes above and beyond for the Company. Do we remember to thank them with simple gestures~ a smile, a pat on the back or most important, a thank you? As Manager/Supervisors, one may assume that recognizing associates with materialistic objects (gift cards, bonuses, etc.) will illustrate the value of how much one “really” appreciates that person. Occasionally, material recognition is well deserved and should be given, but there are times that saying “Thank You”, sending a personalized note/card, or announcing one's gratitude for an associate and/or the team's efforts during a staff meeting reassures how much you appreciate them. This gesture sends out a powerful statement that no gift card value can ever hold.

With the recently lose of my little best friend, it has reminded me on how important it is to express one's gratitude and not take someone or something for granted. When associates leave our company, we loose a part of us regardless how long or short they have been employed, the loss is still a loss. Aspen strives on not losing any associate especially for the simple lack of recognizing or acknowledging their contributions to our company. "THANK YOU!, GREAT JOB!, I APPRECIATE YOU!".... the simplicity of recognition goes a long way and it's priceless... just like our associates.