The end of 2014 and beginning of 2015 is right around the corner. Perhaps you’re starting to brainstorm ways to recognize your people as 2014 draws to a close or looking to set up some sort of recognition system for the new year. While many different types of incentives exist, I’d argue that some of the best forms of recognition cost less, but are more meaningful!    

- One idea for how to structure your system is to create a recognition box. Throughout the month (or for whatever duration you desire), managers and co-workers can write “shout outs” to one another and essentially nominate each other to be recognized for their work. At the end of the period, total up how many shout outs there are for each person – the person with the most receives some sort of recognition.

- This list of ideas comes from the University of Washington, which they adapted from the University of Michigan. While this particular list is largely tailored toward these universities, many ideas are applicable in various other work settings, including the following:

• Establish a place to display memos, posters, photos and so on, recognizing progress towards goals and thanking individual employees for their help.
• Use 3x5 cards to write "You're special because..." statements. People can collect the cards and refer to them when things aren't going perfectly.
• Arrange for an outstanding employee to have lunch with a higher up.  
• Give the person a membership or subscription to a journal that relates to their work.
• Give flowers to an employee at their home or office as a thank you.
• Give a personalized coffee cup.

- And don’t ever underestimate the power of simply saying, “thank you.” Those two words carry more weight than many probably realize.

Non-monetary forms of recognition go a long way – I personally value handwritten notes and cards more than gift cards. So, keep in mind Aristotle's words of wisdom: “we are what we repeatedly do. Excellence then, is not an act, but a habit” – thank those who are doing great work and keep everyone in the workplace engaged, inspired, and performing brilliantly!