When a manufacturing operation is not increasing production, many managers automatically suspect supply-chain issues. In many cases, however, unmotivated or disengaged employees can impact productivity just as much as raw-material suppliers. By finding ways to ensure employee recognition at all levels, you can improve morale and increase productivity.
Employee recognition is an often-ignored aspect of maintaining a stable manufacturing workforce. In a recent study by TimeJobs, researchers found that 35 percent of participants link recognition and productivity. When their efforts are not acknowledged or appreciated, employees have little reason to work harder, making it difficult for companies to increase productivity. They are also more likely to leave a job, resulting in slower operations, wasted time on hiring and increased training costs.
Recognition programs can provide an incentive for employees to improve performance. When their everyday activities are tied to rewards, they are more likely to pay attention on the job, spot potential problems, and follow the policies that the company has laid out. What's more, they may be on the lookout for ways to work more effectively.
Effective employee recognition requires a commitment from supervisory employees throughout the company, from floor managers to CEOs. Supervisors must recognize that employees are a company's most valuable assets and dedicate themselves to boosting satisfaction. When everyone is dedicated to developing a happier and more engaged workforce, the results can be powerful.
As you set out to create an employee recognition program, it is crucial to understand your workers. What motivates them? What aspects of the company are unsatisfactory to them? What specific behaviors can they improve, both on a daily basis and in the long term? The company perspective is also an important consideration. What corporate goals can the program support? What behaviors does company leadership want to encourage?
When an increase in production is the goal, managers should implement employee recognition programs that reward workers for making progress toward company performance goals: decreasing waste, increasing shift output or reducing the number of injuries, for example. Focus your efforts on the behaviors that are most likely to address bottlenecks or problem areas. In doing so, you'll avoid wasting time and money on ineffective programs.
As you are choosing rewards for your recognition program, be sure to offer a variety of options to suit all employees. Financial gifts and extra vacation days are almost always effective. Other options include gym memberships, event tickets, access to a corporate vacation property or gift certificates. Alternatively, consider thanking all employees by offering public thank-yous at meetings or surprising workers with free meals during each shift.
By tailoring your program to the preferences of the employees and the needs of the company, you can boost productivity and morale simultaneously. Developing an employee recognition takes time and effort, but the rewards can be exponential.
Image courtesy of bugphai at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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