When recognizing team members for their successes, it is important to go beyond simply saying “Good job!” and instead retell the story of their achievements. This practice has several benefits:
- Clearly explaining the actions of the team members communicates what you hope they will repeat, increasing the likelihood of improvement.
- Sharing specific information about the team’s accomplishments can boost team members’ morale and foster a sense of pride and self-esteem. It is gratifying when others recognize and acknowledge our achievements.
- The story provides a role model for others to emulate. By showcasing real-life examples, it makes exceptional actions seem achievable and inspires others to strive for the same.
- It is important to repeat the story, even in a private, one-on-one celebration. This shows the team member that you are knowledgeable about their contribution, which enhances the authenticity of the recognition.




