HR project focuses on saying thank you

By Donna Gray

A team of campus employees is working to improve the way the university says thank you to staff and faculty.

For the past two months, Joan McDonald, project leader and human resources consultant, has been leading efforts to develop a recognition program for the university. The goal is to develop a program that raises awareness on the need for effective recognition.

“ People matter,” said McDonald. “HR’s role is to ensure that the university’s people strategy is effective and helps faculties and departments achieve their objectives. When done well, recognition helps leaders and managers with managing rewards beyond the scope of monetary compensation and improves the work environment. Staff members benefit from sincere acknowledgement of their efforts.”

McDonald said that although there are impressive recognition practices already in place in some departments and faculties, an Employee Opinion survey conducted two years ago found staff members felt that recognition is an area that could be improved.

“ As an employer, the university values the people whose work contributes to the university’s success. Clearly we need to address this in a comprehensive way and facilitate better recognition practices.”

Throughout August, the human resources team has held several focus groups designed to solicit feedback from staff. The team has also been gathering examples of best practice from other organizations and consulting with various departments to determine existing recognition practices.

Marie Volpi, consultant and team member for the project, says once the feedback is collected and organized, a draft framework for recognition practices will be developed.

“ We need to find more ways on how to give recognition. We’ll incorporate this aspect into our leadership development and other training programs. Everyone has a part to play in how we interact with others and what kind of an environment we work and learn in,” says Volpi.

Although some methods of recognition range in cost, many can yield little or no expense, such as a spontaneous thank you to a co-worker. The real value, says Volpi, involves enhancing interpersonal relationships.

“ This promotes a culture of recognition that improves the quality of the workplace environment and how we value others, which leads to improved well-being of staff members. This in turn will help staff and the community appreciate that the university really is a great place to work and learn.”

For project information, visit www.ucalgary.ca/UofC/departments/HR/news/