Timing matters.
The sooner you acknowledge great work, the more powerful the message becomes.
Recognition that happens while the moment is still fresh captures energy, builds connection, and
strengthens the impact of the achievement.
According to O.C. Tanner, recognition delivered close to the event is up to 8 times more
impactful than waiting until a formal review or award cycle. When people can clearly link your
appreciation to their actions, they are more likely to repeat and build on that success.
Everyday Moves:
Adopt a “recognition budget.” Spend 2 –5 minutes each day acknowledging great work right
away.
Look for micro -moments. Praise progress, teamwork, and creative problem -solving while they
are still top of mind.
Empower everyone to recognize. Give your team simple tools or prompts to make in -the-
moment recognition easy for everyone.
Timely recognition reinforces the behaviors and results you want more of, and it shows people
that their contributions are noticed in real time. Over time, this builds trust, reinforces shared
values, and creates a culture where appreciation is part of the everyday people experience.
Make timely recognition a daily habit, and you will turn fresh moments into lasting wins
for the entire people experience.