Despite 70% of employees highlighting the importance of recognition, just 42% have received regular recognition from their chief executive officers (CEOs), according to research by Boostworks.
The employee reward and recognition, benefits delivery and wellbeing provider's white paper The heart of workplace engagement, which surveyed 3,000 UK HR professionals, C-suite leaders and employees, also found that 81% of HR professional respondents resonated with the need for emotional bonds through direct manager feedback and peer recognition.
However, three-quarters (76%) of C-suite leaders acknowledged challenges aligning these practices with business goals, due to traditional compensation strategies.
More than half (51%) of employees believed direct recognition from managers positively impacted their morale and engagement, with 53% agreeing that their work milestones were regularly acknowledged and 51% saying their personal milestones were acknowledged. Half (50%) agreed that senior managers receive more recognition than those at a lower level.
Almost half (48%) of employees believed managers should regularly share information about available rewards and benefits, and 25% wanted more frequent updates on reward and recognition. Two-fifths (40%) of HR professionals and 39% of C-suite executives agreed this should happen every two to three months, while 38% believed it should be monthly or more often.
While 76% of C-suite executives perceived communication as open, only 51% of employees shared the same view.
Andy Caldicott, CEO at Boostworks, said: “Our research shows a significant discrepancy between employee needs for recognition and what is actually given, underscoring a substantial gap in leadership practices where the emotional and professional needs of employees are not being fully met. The journey towards a thriving workplace culture is a collective endeavour, demanding a strategic approach to harmonise recognition practices with the holistic aspirations of all employees.
“Businesses must prioritise emotional connections and recognise the unsung heroes: line managers and peers. By fostering a culture of recognition and setting the tone for better, more transparent communications, organisations can enhance engagement, satisfaction, and all importantly, retention.”
