Employee Recognition – Administrative Teams

 Your Administrative Teams work very hard to meet the myriad of demands placed on their daily routines to maintain a content client base. Historically, we all know that firms like to run a ‘lean and mean’ ship, and are very ‘budget’ conscious. This is particularly so during any economic downturn, such as we are facing today.

The ideas I am proposing are inexpensive, and some have no cost associated with them whatsoever. Given the value of your administrative employees, and the return on investment, I submit the following suggestions.

Given my tenure in the corporate setting, I believe there are two primary factors that need to be first, and foremost on this list, and these are (a) acknowledgement for jobs well done, and (b) communications.

It is most disconcerting to feel, or to be left, ‘out of the loop’ with what is happening within your own division. I believe that this creates false insecurities, negative attitudes, and does not support achieving top performance and production levels from Administrative Teams.

Flex hours

Flexible work schedules are a very attractive and popular staff benefit. Giving a few hours or day(s) off in appreciation for an outstanding job, or providing time off for ‘personal or family days’, are all meaningful and impactful rewards. If all staff adheres to the policy, and the program is fair to all administrative staff, this would be a worthy and cost effective benefit.

Partner or President Acknowledgements (National Division Head)

It is very nice to receive acknowledgement from the Division Leader, whether in person or via a hand written note or email. Naturally, this note would be carbon copied to the appropriate professional team members and HR. In my opinion, this is a thoughtful, cost effective, and powerful way of providing employee recognition. In addition to this, then note provides valuable ‘kudos’ for employee Portfolios.

Interoffice Networking

Introducing employees to key staff members such as Partners, Team Leaders, Graphics, Production and IT, can assist in making the employee feel respected, valued, and part of a cohesive team in relatively short order.

Transit or Parking Passes

Monthly transit or parking passes are valued benefits and most appreciated amongst Administrative staff members.

Office Newsletter Acknowledgements

Ask co-workers to write something they truly like or appreciate about a co-worker and have them submit their write-up to Production or your Social Committee for printing in the company Newsletter.

Chocolates, Flowers, or Plants

It is common practice in any office setting, that chocolates, flowers and plants are a sign of accomplishment and terrific work for the recipient. This is a nice ‘ego boost’ for the Assistant, as well as his/her division.

Telecommuting

Telecommuting programs relieve stress, illustrate firm appreciation, and create more productive employees overall. This flexible time to work off-site would be based on client deliverables, and the administrative input requirements to afford successful completion and delivery of the assignment.

Of course, I would be remiss if I did not mention the three simple words we all deserve to hear, but do not hear often enough. These simple words, spoken consistently, and with deep sincerity and respect are simply Please, and Thank You.

Tags: acknowledgement, admin teams, Communications, employee recognition, flex hours, hard work, inexpensive, telecommuting