We're approaching the end of Quarter 1, and it's time to acknowledge the staff members that got the company off to a great start in 2017. While most of the awards that initially come to mind are for quantifiable results (ex: number of sales, star ratings, revenue, customer retention, etc), there are plenty of awards that you should also hand out that†recognize the vital employees that produce more†subjective results. Here's a list of appropriate awards for the end of the quarter. By no means are these the only awards you should give out-- feel free to get creative. The more opportunities you can make your team feel appreciated, the better. As your scroll through this blog post, remember this quote...

"Employees who believe that management is concerned about them as a whole person - not just an employee -  are more productive, more satisfied, more fulfilled. Satisfied employees mean satisfied customers, which leads to profitability." - former CEO of Xerox, Anne Mulcahy

1) Top Salespeople

We'll start with the obvious: you need to reward your top salesperson. This could be the highest number of sales or biggest dollar amount of sales. We'd take it a step further. Find ways to give out multiple sales awards. Give out awards to all your top salespeople that surpassed a certain quota. If you keep your salespeople happy, they'll most likely return the favor in the form of increased productivity and sales. Here's an example of a sales award you could give out: our American Rosewood Plaque

Here's an example of a less serious sales award you could give out:†the Sales Shark trophy.

2) Highest Rated Customer Service Reps

Your customer service representatives are responsible for dealing with complicated product issues and disgruntled customers. It's a tough job that can be psychologically draining.†Don't overlook the customer service reps†that consistently keep the customer happy. Here's an example of an award you can customize for your highest rated customer service representatives.

3) Most Punctual

The snooze button is every employee's first obstacle every day. If they overcome the temptation of the snooze, they have to plan how they'll combat the morning rush hour. Getting to work on time isn't easy. Reward those that find a way to be there every weekday, 5 minutes before 9am. Here's a good award for your punctual employees.

4) Most Innovative / Best Idea(s)

Your salespeople convert the leads, but how do they get the leads in the first place? Your marketing team drives the leads that end up becoming customers. Your marketing team†not only needs to execute tried-and-true marketing strategies, they also need to come up with new cutting edge ideas to bring in new leads. For the best ideas in Q1, we think this unique award should suffice.

5) Key Milestones

Did you bring on any new employees in Q1? Is anyone retiring at the end of the month? These are the types of key milestones you'll want to acknowledge at the end of each quarter. Here's a good award for employees that are retiring: the Rosewood Mantle Clock

6) Best Support Staff Member / Best Teammate

You can't forget about the staff members whose primary role is to support other staff members. They're responsible for the company's success too. For the best teammates, this award is appropriate.

7) Exceptional Leadership

Every company has a group of employees that go above and beyond the call of duty. Maybe they organize weekend outings to boost company morale. Maybe they take the lead on a charity initiative. These staff members not only perform their job duties well, they take it upon themselves to do more.†Encourage these types of employees to continue to surpass expectations by showing a token of your appreciation. This award should do the trick: the Flight Eagle

Show your appreciation

Your employees made Q1 a success. Let them know how much you appreciate them. This will ensure that you keep the momentum rolling into Q2 and beyond. If you have any questions about our products, don't hesitate to call us at†800-377-8646.