A strong team of employees can make a world of difference in a company’s normal business operations. Generally speaking, they are independent, efficient, make few mistakes, and promote an all-around positive work environment for others to follow. Because of this, companies should put forth the effort to recognize and show appreciation to teams in the workplace.

Individual vs Team-Based Performance Recognition

Recognizing teams of employees takes a different approach than recognizing individual employees. Traditional employee recognition/appreciation programs focus on individualism, recognizing employees for their individual accomplishments in the workplace. This is a great way to encourage employees to continue working hard and pushing themselves on the job, but it doesn’t offer any real benefit to teams.

According to a study performed by Alexander Group and WorldatWork, only 41% of companies incorporate team-based incentives into their employee recognition programs. And most of the companies that do recognize teams fail to recognize the collective group of employees.

“Team incentives are best used when the team members must coordinate sales efforts with each other,” explained David Cichell, Vice President of the Alexander Group.

Importance of Team Recognition

Recognizing teams in the workplace is important for a number of reasons, one of which is the simple fact that it encourages employees to help one another. Far too many workers operate with a one-way mind, only handling their duties and responsibilities. This often results in breakdowns in certain parts of the company, as other employees may struggle with an excessive workload, equipment issues, etc.

Still not convinced that recognizing team-based performance is worth your time and energy? See below for a short list of benefits associated with team recognition.

Benefits of Team Recognition In The Workplace:

• Encourages employees to work as a team, helping one another when needed.
• When multiple teams are present, recognition creates a competitive environment.
• Improves overall work productivity.
• Teams-based recognition connects with each individual member on the team, making them feel appreciated for everything they’ve done.
• Team-based recognition is a cost-effective technique for reducing employee turnover rates and maintaining a positive mood in the workplace.
• Celebrates milestone markers reached by teams of employees.

Team-based recognition shouldn’t be used in place of a traditional employee recognition/appreciation program. Instead, it should be used to compliment your ‘regular’ program, teams of employees and everything they’ve done.