The Power Of Celebrating Teams by Cindy Stradling CSL, CPC
Today, most businesses use some type of teamwork model. When done correctly, employee and leadership teams create a positive work environment, boost innovation and creativity, and result in higher productivity across the team and the business.
Finding ways to celebrate the work, innovation, and effort of teams throughout an organization is essential in developing a top-down focus on the importance of working together. Unfortunately, when team leaders take credit for the team’s accomplishment, it undermines the team ethic and creates problems for continued collaboration.
Celebrating teams can look different in various organizations and at different stages of the project. To help develop different options in team celebrations, having various options in place allows you to choose the best one for the given circumstance or situation.
Direct Recognition
Companies often have weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, or quarterly newsletters that highlight accomplishments, achievements, and success stories. Talking about the team’s achievement, even if it is not the final completion of the project, is an effective way to spotlight their efforts.
This type of direct recognition can also be a video message from the CEO or other designated leader, a personal visit to the team, and a message of gratitude if the team works in a physical location. Individual video calls, emails, or phone calls to each team member are another option to consider, but having everyone together to celebrate, either in person or virtually, adds to the team culture.
Special Awards
One of the best ways to support the importance of teams is to make rewards team-based. This is not only important for the group receiving the award, but it also provides something for other teams to see and work to achieve.
Depending on the scope and complexity of the project or task, these types of awards could include a special team retreat or holiday. Having the team participate in this social activity together further reinforces the team culture. It is also a fun way for team members to get to know each other on a more personal level.
Team Recognition of Each Other
Celebrating teams does not always have to come from management. Many teams incorporate a way to celebrate internally within the group. This can include recognition messages or having team members celebrate their success or the success of a team member at the beginning of staff meetings or regular team meetings.
Celebrating teams is a way to establish a positive, encouraging, and supportive workplace culture. This, in turn, helps attract and retain top professionals focused on continuous improvement and exceeding their goals.
