No matter who you are and what you do…there always seems to be a form of “Mystique” that surrounds the best way to provide recognition for a job well done.  You know what I mean.  Whether it is a parent praising their son or daughter for good grades on a report card…or telling a co-worker they really helped complete a tough project…offering quality recognition sometimes is elusive.

Personally, I was not the greatest at delivering positive, timely recognition.  At home and at work my style seemed to be that I just thought my professional/personal conduct would appropriately say: “Hey, way to go!” Or maybe I somehow assumed (which meant they could read my mind) that I appreciated the job well done.  In retrospect…I know I left many people wondering.

I believe it is human development critical to dispel The Mystique of Recognition.  So lets start first by trying to be stronger and clearer in our words delivering recognition.  Because remember recognition can be used not only to praise…but also to encourage.  Therefore, recognition could be positive for both a job well done…based on a good beginning…but also needs more intense action for a great completion.

It is also important to not use the same or similar words when offering recognition.  Recognition means special…SPECIAL ATTENTION…so choose your “way-to-go” words with this in mind.  And finally try to differentiate between what is standardly expected…and what is truly special or recognition deserving! Because if everything gets high recognition…it all becomes just the same.

PS… Just writing this has helped me better understand The Mystique of Recognition! How about you?