Why it matters
In a field experiment, recognising the top three performers raised output across the whole group, including people who weren’t recognised. Specific recognition shows everyone what good looks like; blanket thanks shows nothing.
How to run it
- Collect examples throughout the month.
- Pick three people — not one (too rare to learn from), not everyone (too vague).
- Describe exactly what each did and why it mattered.
- Do it in front of the team.
Watch out for
- The same three people every month — look widely
- Vague praise (“great attitude”) instead of specific behaviour