Student Life - Leadership Resources
Recognizing Members
It is very important for the members of your group to feel they
are making a positive contribution. By recognizing them for their
specific contributions, you not only let them know that you value
their work, you also motivate them to do more. In addition, you
will build a sense of loyalty and dedication to the group.
Guidelines For Effective And Rewarding Recognition:
- Match the reward to the person
Start with the individual's personal preferences; reward him
or her in ways he or she truly finds rewarding.
- Match the reward to the achievement
Take into account the time, effort and significance of the achievement.
- Be timely and specific
To be most effective, rewards need to be given as soon as possible
after the achievement. In addition, always say why the reward
is being given.
- Reward publicly and privately.
Tips on Recognizing Members
- Hold an annual awards banquet (or semesterly). Give certificates
and/or plaques for members' contributions.
(Have some gag gifts, too.)
- Throw a party or social just for your organization. Have great
food and music!
- Create a traveling "member of the month" award.
- Arrange for freebies for members. Have a raffle at each meeting.
- Invite members to attend executive board meetings.
- Write letters to the members and/or their families telling
them what a difference they are making on campus and in the
organization.
- Write thank-you notes to members often.
- Send birthday cards and celebrate birthdays together. Also
celebrate any other special occasions.
- Recognize personal accomplishments publicly.
- Always recognize members by name, in the newspaper or by introducing
them at events or programs.
- Have a weekly "Most Valuable Member".
- Nominate members for the WCTC Leadership Awards as well as
for other awards and scholarships.
- Do a spotlight on one of your members on a regular basis either
in your own newsletter, or a College Center display case.
- Put your group photo in the newsletter. Give each member a
framed copy of the picture.
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