About Maslow Insights
Maslow Insights was designed to help leaders strengthen company culture and employee engagement through practical, data-backed recognition strategies. By leveraging benchmarks and best practices, it transforms recognition from a one-off initiative into a sustainable driver of performance and retention.
Want to see how Maslow Insights could guide your recognition strategy? Explore how it works here.
Recognition
As we wrap the quarter, there are many ways to recognize your team that HR and company leaders have, yet now is the time to be intentional as the year comes to a close.
In a recent blog, “Companies Recognized with Outstanding Cultural Alignment,” we explored several different organizations’ approach to culture. Today, we are asking Maslow Insights the following question, “It is almost the end of the quarter. What’s left in the year for employee recognition?” to learn more about ways to close out the year strong.
As we have reached the end of the quarter and nearly the year, there’s a unique opportunity to elevate employee recognition for maximum impact in the months ahead. Here’s what’s left, and why it matters:
Ways to Recognize Your Team at the End of the Year
1. Quarterly and Year-End Milestone Recognition
Why it matters: Recognition tied to quarterly and annual milestones is especially meaningful. Employees reflect on their contributions, and organizations have a chance to celebrate both individual and team achievements. Recognition at this time helps close the year on a high note, reinforcing a culture of appreciation and motivating strong finishes.
Action:
- Spotlight top performers: Host all-hands meetings or virtual events honoring standout contributions.
- Celebrate progress: Highlight team wins, not just end results, to show that effort and growth are valued.
2. Goal Alignment & Reset for the New Year
Why it matters: Recognition isn’t just backward-looking. It’s also a powerful lever for aligning employees around next year’s goals and values. Forward-focused recognition can set the tone for what matters most in the upcoming year.
Action:
- Recognize behaviors that align with next year’s priorities: For example, reward early adopters of new initiatives or culture champions.
- Incentivize learning and development: Celebrate those who upskill or take on stretch assignments.
3. Seasonal and Holiday Recognition Opportunities
Why it matters: The last part of the year is rich with cultural and seasonal moments, holidays, team celebrations, and year-end gatherings. These are prime employee recognition opportunities to create memorable recognition experiences that foster belonging.
Action:
- Personalized holiday recognition: Go beyond generic gifts by tying rewards to individual preferences or recent accomplishments.
- Team experiences: Host virtual or in-person gatherings that celebrate collective effort and unity.
4. Service Anniversaries and Career Milestones
Why it matters: End-of-year is when many employees reach work anniversaries or career milestones. These moments are often overlooked but are critical for retention and engagement, especially for tenured employees.
Action:
- Spotlight tenure and loyalty: Publicly recognize those hitting key service anniversaries with stories, awards, or experiential rewards.
- Encourage peer recognition: Invite colleagues to share memories or appreciation for long-serving team members.
5. Feedback and Program Evaluation
Why it matters: Now is an ideal time to assess what’s working in your recognition program and what could be improved for next year. Gathering feedback ensures your approach stays relevant and impactful.
Action:
- Survey employees: Ask what types of recognition were most meaningful this year.
- Iterate: Use feedback to design or refresh programs, aligning with evolving employee needs and business goals.
Strategic Takeaway
The last months of the year are a chance to amplify recognition’s impact, celebrating the past, connecting to purpose, and setting the foundation for future success. Organizations that are intentional and creative with end-of-year recognition see stronger engagement and retention heading into the new year.
Would you like specific ideas or ways to recognize your team for year-end recognition events, or guidance on refreshing your program for next year?
For additional information, check out this Gallup article, ”The Importance of Employee Recognition: Low Cost, High Impact.”