Developing a Departmental Recognition
Program
How We Did It at the University Hygienic Lab
Our Start
A supervisor was considering how to recognize a job well done. Concurrently, central Human Resources had sent a draft of recognition guidelines that recommended each department develop a written program so that recognition would be an open and fair process that adhered to appropriate financial practices. Mary Gilchrist, our director, saw an opportunity and asked for volunteers to staff a recognition committee to develop a program for UHL.
Our Process
Eleven volunteers began by using the template on the Recognition website. An individual drafted a policy statement and the committee refined it. Several areas to recognize were proposed and the rewards for the levels established (see program structure below for details). Our director reviewed the proposal and added another recognition opportunity—to thank external partners for their work with UHL. In addition, the Iowa Quality Center gave constructive feedback after we made a presentation to them including developing criteria guidelines, i.e. revenue enhancing, cost reduction, customer service improvement, educational opportunity for external or internal clients, or staff relationships improvement.
Our Program Structure
Our written program consists of:
- Years of Service—gifts chosen from catalog after 15 years
- CQI for UHL— achievement of an improved process -----plaque, gift certificate
- Onward and Upward—project completion within time, cost and impact goals—plaque, gift certificate
- UHL’s Choice Awards—nominating staff for UI Awards ( IOWA, Outstanding Staff, Board of Regents Staff Excellence)
- Other Professional Society Awards—nominate co-workers for external professional recognition
- Applause, Applause—spontaneous, informal thank you card and small gift certificate
- External Thanks—official card to external clients and their supervisor
What Challenged Us
It was challenging to develop a policy and structure that afforded all staff opportunities for recognition, that was personally meaningful to each recipient, and that permitted anyone to nominate. In addition, we spent considerable time developing flowcharts for each recognition program so that the process and responsibilities were clear.
How We Communicate the Program
The committee developed a powerpoint that was presented to staff. We use the bulletin board to post our purpose statement and to display nominations as further recognition of the efforts of staff.
How We Maintain the Program
The committee meets every two weeks to review nominations for eligibility and to track the use of each program.
How We Fund the Program
The funding for our recognition program comes from honoraria donated by Mary Gilchrist, Director of University Hygienic Lab
How We Celebrate
During National Medical Lab Week, we have an annual potluck that is emceed by the director to acknowledge staff efforts.
Questions? Email Candace-Peters or call 335-2260