In today’s workplace, organizations are constantly searching for new ways to keep employees engaged and motivated. A focused strategy of gamification—or the practice of applying points, levels, or any other game-like elements to non-game atmospheres—is an exciting and engaging choice to retain interest from the workforce. When applied to employee recognition, attaching point levels or other game features encourages employees to participate, making them highly engaged in the goal at hand.
Why it Works
Gamification pushes people to compete in a healthy way. It sets goals for them, and things such as leaderboards and prizes give people a sense of accomplishment and a little boost of serotonin for what they are accomplishing. Humans are naturally competitive, so implementing gamification into the workspace encourages dedication to accomplishing a goal. By mixing the competition with a positive work culture, a strong team can become even stronger.
How it Applies to Recognition
Platforms such as RecogNation allow employees to get a sense of gamification, while also producing good work and uplifting others. By using points that can be redeemed, and a monthly leaderboard, employees are constantly encouraged to be active and involved. This creates a ripple effect of employee recognition among peers and related teams. The more recognition you get or give, the higher you rise on the moments leaderboard. This friendly competition is just that—friendly. Gamification does not have to be cutthroat; when it applies to recognition. It is powerful and uplifting, instead.
Impact on the Organization
Aside from the enjoyment of watching employees compete and climbing to the top of the leaderboard, implementing gamification into employee recognition efforts shows a direct correlation to better work produced. When there are game-like assets in the platform, people are more inclined to recognize and be recognized. When trying to push towards recognition, people are producing better, more thought-out work. Those witnessing other’s good will push them to up their own game as well. Gamification transforms recognition into something big and impactful by making it a continuous, interactive experience.