1) Determine your objectives (i.e., the behaviors you want to recognize)

2) Analyze the demographics of your organization to understand the culture(s) you have to reach

3) Determine the statement you want to communicate

4) Develop a communications strategy that creates awareness about the recognized individual

5) Develop an awards strategy that distinguishes compensation from recognition

6) Involve employees in developing the program and even in helping to select achievers

7) Develop a meaningful presentation strategy so that people feel that management cares

8) Rethink recognition on a regular basis to make sure what is being recognized is in keeping with current corporate values and objectives

Recognition can be as broad a concept as you want to make it, based on the values you want to promote within the organization. A human resources specialist suggests that managers take the number of people they supervise and multiply by two minutes to determine the amount of time specifically devoted each week to getting to know people and understanding what makes them feel appreciated and motivated.