The Secret to Boosting Team Morale

As leaders, we often hear how important it is to “recognize your employees.” But here’s the truth: recognition isn’t one-size-fits-all.

What motivates one person might completely miss the mark for another. In fact, recognizing someone the wrong way can actually have the opposite effect, leaving them feeling unseen or misunderstood.

So how do you know what kind of recognition each person values most? And...why should you care?

Because when you take the time to understand how your team members prefer to be appreciated, you create a culture where people feel genuinely valued, not just acknowledged.

Here are five different recognition styles that may be appearing within your team:

1. Meaningful Words

Some people feel most appreciated through sincere, verbal or written acknowledgment. A thoughtful thank-you note or a quick, specific shoutout in a team meeting can go a long way. But be mindful! While some enjoy public praise, others may prefer a quiet, one-on-one acknowledgment instead.

2. Quality Connection

For others, the best recognition comes through your presence. Setting aside time to really listen, ask questions, or check in over coffee shows that you care about them as individuals, not just their output.

3. Thoughtful Tokens

Small, tangible gestures can speak volumes. A handwritten card, a favorite snack, or a personalized gift can show that you were thinking of them. It’s less about the cost, and more about the thought behind it.

4. Positive Gestures

In a workplace-appropriate way, physical gestures (like a high-five, fist bump, or even an enthusiastic thumbs-up) can express genuine appreciation and team camaraderie. Sometimes, that quick moment of positive energy is all someone needs to feel encouraged.

5. Supportive Actions

When someone’s overwhelmed, offering to lend a hand or take a task off their plate can be one of the most powerful forms of recognition. Actions that show “I see your effort, and I’ve got your back” often mean more than words ever could.

The key to effective recognition isn’t just what you do, it’s how personalized it is. And timing matters. Recognition that’s thoughtful and timely reinforces great performance and strengthens trust within your team.

It's also important to note that people can have a combination of these styles, and sometimes the styles themselves may even overlap. For example, a hand-written card can be perfect for someone who prefers "Meaningful Words," and "Thoughtful Tokens."

🌟 Ready to discover your team’s recognition styles? Download our free Recognition Style Quiz to find out how you and your team prefer to be appreciated, and start building a culture where everyone feels truly valued. Click here to get your free download!

Schedule a Discovery Call with us at www.MonarchCoachingCo.com to begin transforming your company culture through thoughtful recognition today.

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