Ever wondered the secrets to great leadership? I mean anyone can learn leadership skill, but how do you become proficient in producing amazing results? According to The Carrot Principle, written by Adrian Gostick and Chester Elton, assuming basic management practices are being engaged (goal setting, communication, trust and accountability), “when recognition is applied . . . It serves as an accelerator of employee performance and engagement.”

One way to look at how recognition works is similar to growing a vegetable- the process for growing the vegetable is as follows:

1. You pick a seed (set a clear goal)

2. You plant your seed (communicate openly)

3. You nurture the seedling (build trust)

4. You weed the soil (hold everyone accountable)

5. Harvest your vegetable (employee enfacement, employee satisfaction, higher profitability, higher customer loyalty)

However, without sunlight, nutrients and water (recognition), the growing will never occur.

Does your organization recognition based? What types of acknowledgement systems do you have? Who in your organization is driving these efforts?