Introduction
Once you’ve corrected a performance issue, the next step it to maintain the improvement.
Keep it going
When was the last time you praised members of your team for an improvement in their performance? As a manager you have many competing priorities but you need to find time to recognise good performance as research has established that:
- Praising employees for improved performance helps to maintain that improvement.
- Yet many employees report that they rarely receive praise for a job well done.
While positive reinforcement motivates people to do their best, failure to do so may result in a decline in performance because people see no point in continuing to make an effort.
When to Praise
Praise is called for when you note improved performance, even if the improvement is only slight. You should offer praise as soon as possible after you notice the improvement.
A Word of Caution
Let the employee enjoy the recognition. Avoid raising other issues or opportunities for further improvement in this discussion, otherwise you run the risk of de-motivating the employee.
Now follow these critical steps to help you deliver positive reinforcement and praise.