There are many reasons front-line hospitality staff want to stay and grow within a business. Career advancement opportunities, professional development, and inspirational leaders are all motivation drivers. Complimentary coffee stations in staff break rooms? Perhaps not as much. 

At Talent Plus, we know that no two hospitality professionals are alike. Standardized recognition examples miss the chance to value each individual’s uniqueness. That’s why we aim to recognize colleagues based on their needs and preferences. Whether it’s a standing ovation or a handwritten note, we work to appreciate what everyone brings to the table. 

Thankfully, there are some key questions and steps you can take to easily personalize your recognition and build a highly motivated and engaged team. 

Transform Your Hospitality Team with Questions About Recognition Preferences 

You can’t expect yourself to know a hospitality team member’s recognition preferences right away. Here are some questions you can ask to learn more about their likes and dislikes. 

When was a time you felt truly appreciated for your service and dedication? 

It can be challenging for people to articulate the type of recognition they value and why. By asking this question, you encourage them to share specific instances of recognition that made a lasting impact, whether it was a heartfelt thank you from a guest or acknowledgment from a supervisor. 

Do you prefer recognition during team meetings or in a private setting? 

This is a question most hospitality team members can answer, even if other preferences are less clear. Some may feel energized by a public acknowledgment during team meetings, while others might prefer a more private conversation. Use their response to determine the best way to provide recognition. 

What’s the last guest service initiative or project you were really proud of? 

It always feels rewarding when your efforts in guest service are recognized. By understanding what aspects of their work fill them with pride, you can validate their contributions and encourage even more of these positive behaviors, whether it’s implementing a new guest service protocol or successfully managing a challenging situation. 

Keep Your Hospitality Team Happy by Personalizing Talent Strengths 

At this point, you know what your team members value in their work and whether or not you should shout your praise from the rooftops. To take your recognition the extra mile, personalize it to your their talent strengths. 

The Talent Plus Talent Card offers an in-depth look at natural talents. These are innate traits hospitality team members possess that help them excel in their roles. And what’s better than having your talents and growth be noticed by a leader? 

Use Talent Cards to guide your personalized recognition. Top talents do not change over time, but they can get stronger. For example, acknowledge when a team member showcases their talent of “Guest Centricity.” Use this recognition as an example of how the individual has grown in their potential, bettering themselves personally and professionally. 

5 Meaningful Recognition Examples for Hospitality Staff 

Recognition shouldn’t happen only during annual check-ins. Successful leaders pay attention to each team member’s behaviors, big and small, and identify opportunities to provide the recognition we all desire. Behaviors like: 

• Contributing to a positive guest experience. 
• Playing a critical role in guest satisfaction. 
• Going above and beyond to help a colleague. 
• Receiving praise from guests or their families. 

Once a leader notices a behavior, there are a variety of paths they can take to recognize that achievement. Here are five examples that we love! 

Celebrate Guest Service Excellence 

Hospitality workers thrive when their efforts in guest service are recognized. Implement a “Guest Service Star” award, where employees are acknowledged for exceptional service. This can be celebrated during team meetings or through a personal note from management, possibly accompanied by a small gift card. 

Guest Feedback Highlights 

Encourage guests to provide feedback on outstanding service. Display positive guest comments in staff areas or share them in team meetings. This not only recognizes the employee but also motivates others to deliver exceptional service. 

Surprise Appreciation Events 

Organize surprise appreciation events, such as a themed breakfast or afternoon tea, where team members are treated to a special meal or snacks. These events can be a delightful way to show gratitude and boost team morale. 

Flexible Scheduling Rewards 

Implement flexible scheduling as a reward for employees who reach specific goals or milestones. This could include achieving a certain number of positive guest feedbacks or completing a professional development course. By offering the ability to choose or swap shifts more easily, employees gain a sense of control and recognition for their achievements, motivating them to continue excelling in their roles. 

Experience-Based Rewards 

Provide experience-based rewards, such as a complimentary stay at the hotel or a dinner for two at the hotel restaurant. These rewards not only recognize their hard work but also allow them to enjoy the services they help provide, fostering a deeper connection to their workplace. 

Elevate Hospitality Excellence 

Recognizing your hospitality team members through personalized and meaningful gestures can greatly enhance their job satisfaction and motivation. By implementing these strategies, hospitality leaders can create a supportive environment where employees feel appreciated and empowered.  

For more tailored solutions on hospitality selection and development, contact us!