So we all know what the studies show and this is that money does not come close in terms of employee satisfaction as praise and feeling valued does. In fact, money, as long as the basic needs are met, comes in about fourth or fifth in the ranking.
Employers sometimes feel that they shouldn’t give praise to employees who simply ‘do their job’. Well, in part I would agree, however, it’s really, really important to give incremental and specific praise. Incremental because, if you wait for them to be perfect, chances are praise won’t happen. If you give incremental praise you encourage them on their journey towards perfection. Specific because it gives them exact information on why they are being praised. Saying “nice job there today” is one thing. Saying, “I really liked the way you calmed that patient down when she was nervous. You made her enjoy going to the dentist for the first time in her life!” Now that’s praise!!