1. Giving Praise to Co-workers
Arizona State Capitol Chapter of NIGP 27th Annual Regional Conference
10/20/16

2. Why Discuss “Giving Praise”
To easy, sometimes, to focus on the negative or what is going wrong
Important in creating a positive work environment climate
Balance of constructive feedback and praise
Leadership should give consistent feedback throughout the year, and not just during performance reviews
Important for everyone to participate in giving praise
It feels GOOD to receive praise and give praise.
Other thoughts?

3. Why Give Praise
People who feel appreciated and respected are more motivated, more engaged in work.
Tight budgets mean lower/no raises or bonuses.
Sincere Praise helps you develop good work relationships with colleagues.
Chemical reaction – when we hear something we like, a burst of dopamine is released in brains. Dopamine is associated with feelings of joy, pride, satisfaction, and well-being.
Giving Praise may result in good working habits to continue to receive praise.
Other?

4. Obstacles with Praise Some find it difficult to give compliments.
Raised in environments where praise was not the norm.
Low self esteem or feel embarrassed
If you are not used to giving praise, set a goal to recognize someone’s good work at least once each day or week. Keep your eyes open for opportunities to show appreciation
Practice management by walking around or eat in the break room once in a while.
Praise does not need to be in person ( , phone, praising to others)

5. How to Give Memorable Praise
Be specific (don’t just say nice job or well done). Give examples of what you thought was well done.
Praise Often – The more you praise, the quicker they’ll learn what’s important to you.
Show as Well as Tell
Ask them to lead a team, or mentor someone else
Praise Appropriately
Some prefer praise in front of others
Some prefer a quiet thank you in private
Spread Your Praise (don’t have favorites, address those who get less recognition too)
Don’t Praise, Then Ask for a Favor!

6. Giving Praise in Different Cultures
Giving Praise in public might be frowned upon in some cultures
US – giving praise is important to build relationships
Germany – possibly lose trust with team by giving too much praise
Resources:
Hofstede’s Cultural Dimensions ( hofstede.com/national-culture.html)
The Seven Dimensions of Culture ( dimensions.htm)

7. Discussion Questions:
Do you think it is easier for us as human beings to focus on the negative or the positive in others? Why?
Why might it be hard to give someone praise?
Why might it be hard to receive praise?
Do you have an example of when cultural issues may affect giving or receiving praise?
Best Practices in the room on giving praise

8. Putting It All Into Action:
Please take 5-10 minutes to think of/write down examples you observed or witnessed in the last month or two where one of your co-workers did something well, or possibly above and beyond.
Did you say something to the person?
Did you tell others (co-workers, supervisors, etc.)
What is your next step to recognize the person in this example?

9. Resources used for Presentation:
to-give-positive-feedback-at-work
Casey Self
Executive Director Academic Services
College of Integrative Sciences and Arts
Arizona State University