One of the most important things we can ever do in the workplace is to recognize each others achievements, contends Kevin Wald, leader of the RQT Survey Team. “The evidence is overwhelming. Recognition increases the self-esteem and initiative of whomever it touches, making a lasting improvement in both the organization and the individual.”

Kevin, it appears, is not alone in his opinion. The idea that praise and recognition are an essential element of a great workplace is an ideal that many in Financial Management share and seek to encourage through the RQT program.

I recently caught up with Kevin to ask about the RQT Survey, conducted earlier this year.

Kyra: So Kevin, why did RQT conduct the survey?

Kevin: Basically, we wanted to ensure the program was still effective in meeting the recognition needs of everyone in Financial Management. We were also concerned with the lack of nominations that were being submitted when we assumed our responsibilities some 18 months ago. And as it has been over 10 years since the program’s inception, we thought now was an appropriate time to take stock and evaluate. In the survey we asked employees what they wanted from the program and sought to understand what was working well and what needed improvement. From this information we can ensure that we are not missing the great opportunities we have for recognition.

Kyra: What was the most significant result of the survey?

Kevin: We were delighted with the level of response. Over 85% of those in Financial Management completed the survey and therefore we believe that the feedback we received is a good reflection of everyone’s opinions. We were also very encouraged by the finding that a healthy 87% of leaders and 57% of staff believe that the program is effective in promoting recognition. Of course, there is still room for improvement, but the results would seem to indicate that we all share a belief in the need to be recognized as individuals and feel a sense of accomplishment in our work. The RQT program is helping to achieve that goal.

Kyra: What are some aspects of the program that need improvement?

Kevin: There are a number of concerns. The survey clearly indicated that leaders are far more active in recognition than staff. This seems to stem from the difficulty staff are having in finding relevant examples to support their nominations and the time it takes to complete the paperwork. It’s difficult because while we want a program that is easy to use, it is also important to have a well-balanced one. You don’t want to have the process and criteria so difficult that no-one is acknowledged, but you also don’t want it all so easy that the awards don’t mean anything. Both situations are ineffective and will do a lot to harm morale. The Person to Person Breakfast was also highlighted as being in need of a fresh makeover. The concept itself seems to be valued, but there was an indication from people they would prefer it to be more focused in its discussions and held frequently. Moving it to a lunch was also mentioned several times.

Kyra: What are your plans to deal with these concerns?

Kevin: Perhaps our greatest challenge is to build the visibility and vibrancy of the program. Every day there are so many worthy achievements that seem to go unnoticed, simply because it never occurs to us to recognize each other. We envision both the RQT Team and the RATT Team coming together to proclaim the message that recognition really is a powerful thing that does so much to transform our work. Also, we want to empower every employee by offering a wide selection of tools they can use to acknowledge each other. As an example, we have just introduced the BRAVO award, which is a $10.00 gift certificate has no validation process, and can be given by anyone to anyone for those endeavors which are too great for a recognition treat and may not merit a QSTEP LINQ or TOPS. We hope this will mean there is an award to cover all achievements – large or small. We are also presently evaluating several new scenarios for the Person to Person Breakfast, which we believe will make it a more enjoyable and informative gathering. I know I can speak for the RQT Team as a whole when I say we are very excited about these changes, and are looking forward to them being implemented in the near future.

Kyra: Thank you. Is there anything else you would like to say to our readers?

Kevin: Only to say thank-you to all who participated in the survey and to the EIT. We genuinely appreciate your help and support and look forward to doing all we can to make recognition a reality in everyone’s work experience.