6 Ways to Make Remote Recognition More Meaningful
While back-to-the-office mandates are gaining traction at some companies, many businesses have found that remote work works! Here are six ideas from our Trendicators Best Practices Report to ensure your remote workers feel recognized and valued.
1. Want More Engagement? Start Connecting!
Remote work can make people feel disconnected. Managers should schedule planned and spontaneous check-ins to learn about employees’ experiences and achievements. This knowledge gives managers plenty of reasons to recognize and celebrate their people.
2. Rewards ≠ Recognition
Rewards are transactional, while recognition is relational. Recognition acknowledges behaviors and personal contributions, while rewards celebrate specific goals. A reward without recognition is like a birthday cake with no candles – nice, but missing the magic.
3. Remote Management Isn’t Set-It-and-Forget-It
Great remote managers understand each employee’s unique needs and challenges. This means improving active listening and focusing on results – not micromanaging processes. Some employees may need help structuring their work, but managers can’t (and shouldn’t) control every detail remotely.
4. Build a Sense of Community
Turn your team into a supportive community by brainstorming shared goals like quality or customer service. Ask each team member for ideas for improvement, implement the best ones, and measure their impact. This shared focus builds connection and purpose.
5. Make Weekly Meetings Fun
Plan meetings with engagement in mind! Use the chat as a virtual water cooler – ask questions, share wins or run a quick poll. Small changes like these encourage participation and keep things lively.
6. Bring the Party to Your People – Virtually!
Make virtual celebrations more meaningful by engaging the senses. Send care packages or order delivery for a shared treat. Ship awards in advance, design fun signage and play upbeat music. Personalized touches make milestones feel special, even from afar.
Remote work is here to stay—so why not make it more meaningful? With these six tips, you’ll keep your team connected, appreciated, and ready to crush their goals. Want a more in depth look at remote recognition? Read the full Trendicators Report here!