Real Recognition is about Emotions

Real Recognition is an emotional response – it’s all about feelings.

Consider these facts from brain science research: First off, emotional data or stimuli, receives the second highest priority for processing in short term memory. This means that emotions can actually take over the rational processing of the brain. They tend to impact upon the conscious memory.

Recognition Significance: Powerful and meaningful expressions of praise and appreciation touch the “heart” of a person more than the rational and logical side of our mind. Is it any wonder that 59 percent of people we surveyed re-read Thank You cards they’ve received simply because they want to recall the feelings of being acknowledged?

Now, building upon this emotional connection, look at the execution of recognition giving, how you give it or how events are planned and perceived by the awardees. Brain research shows that events associated with strong emotions, whether good or bad, are usually more easily recalled.
So how you give the award, the staging, the music being played, etc. can all trigger emotional memories – positive or negative.

Recognition Significance: Plan out very carefully how you will present your recognition. Personalize the delivery and orchestrate the atmosphere of the recognition event with attention to detail that will make this memorable for the recipient. These emotional memories tend to be compared in the unconscious memory of past experiences.

So be very mindful that in giving recognition to those we work with and those at home, we are creating trigger points of experiential memory.

Let’s all outweigh any negatives from the past by creating a positive emotional response by giving those around us Real Recognition the right way.