In fact, when it comes to recognition, that's all some employees may be looking for. And if they do not receive it, these employees may be looking elsewhere. Shellenbarger argues that the cost of retaining them, however, may not be as costly as imagined. While many managers might think their employees want the world, many simply want to be compensated fairly as well as recognized for a job well-done.
Leaders owe it to their employees to demonstrate recognition.
As many companies have downsized and pushed levels of decision-making lower, it is imperative that employees who do a good job receive the proper recognition and reward. This is important for two reasons. One, good companies want to encourage their successful employees to continue doing a good job. Two, proper recognition sets up strong patterns of reinforcement that other managers will emulate. These favorable behaviors create a culture of positive reinforcement that eventually will permeate the entire organization.