Acknowledgment and Appreciation in Project Management

As we transition from a season of gratitude to the festive season of giving, let’s harness the spirit of appreciation within our project teams. This week marks not just a discussion but a call-to-action! We’re excited to kick off a special challenge for all project leaders and managers in our network. Together, let’s explore and showcase inventive ways to express thanks and appreciation in our projects for our invaluable team members.

In our effort to cultivate a culture of appreciation in our project teams, there are creative ways to acknowledge and celebrate team members’ efforts. Let’s explore some diverse methods:

• MVP Recognition:

  Project managers should establish clear criteria for exceptional performance and contributions. Communicate the program, set up a nomination system, and schedule regular ceremonies for announcement and celebration. Project managers can leverage Employee Recognition and Rewards platforms like Kudos or Bonusly to reward outstanding contributions with points redeemable for gift cards or other tangible items.

• Giving Time Off as Recognition:

  Collaborate with Leadership and your Human Resources department to establish a process for team members to redeem time off, ensuring a seamless and appreciative experience for their hard working efforts. This is especially appreciated by team members who have made exceptional contributions that may have required overtime. This will need prior approval by Leadership and Human Resources and should follow an approved, structured process, but it is greatly appreciated by those who have sacrificed personal time to accomplish company goals.

• Personal Email to Team Member’s Supervisor:

  Project Managers can go further by emailing a team member’s supervisor, highlighting specific contributions and emphasizing positive impact. For exceptional efforts, elevate recognition to the C-level and VP Executive team, ensuring acknowledgement at the highest levels and fostering a culture of appreciation.

• Team-Building Activities:

  Plan team events-lunches, trivia, or virtual happy hours- to foster positivity, showing gratitude for project contributions. These activities contribute to professional growth and create a family-like connection among team members, fostering camaraderie that extends beyond the workplace and often leads to exceptional teamwork.

Let’s embrace and implement these practices, making gratitude a vibrant part of our team culture!