Fostering Employee Recognition: Enhancing Engagement and Connection Through Consistent, Meaningful Initiatives

Using the IHI Framework for Improving Joy in Work (Perlo et al., 2017) as our foundation, our clinic launched a Joy in Work initiative to enhance employee recognition and strengthen team cohesion. Feedback from What Matters to You? (WMTY) conversations revealed that staff felt undervalued, with only 58% of employees reporting regular recognition for their contributions. This lack of acknowledgment contributed to decreased morale, lower job satisfaction, and reduced buy-in for the clinic's mission. To address these concerns, we implemented a structured monthly recognition program, including birthday celebrations, get to know you activities, and regular shoutouts. These efforts specifically target the Recognition & Rewards and Camaraderie & Teamwork components of the IHI Framework. The recognition initiatives aim to foster both individual acknowledgment and team accomplishments, creating a supportive and connected workplace where staff feel seen, valued, and supported. Early participation in recognition activities shows promising results, with increased engagement and positive feedback from staff about their sense of appreciation and connection. We continue to monitor progress and refine the initiative through ongoing feedback and assessment. This project demonstrates how applying the IHI Framework and leveraging staff input through WMTY conversations can enhance employee morale, strengthen team cohesion, and contribute to a more joyful and supportive work environment. Citation: Perlo J, Balik B, Swensen S, Kabcenell A, Landsman J, Feeley D. IHI Framework for Improving Joy in Work. Cambridge, MA: Institute for Healthcare Improvement, 2017.

Fostering Employee Recognition: Connecting Through Consistent, Meaningful Initiatives University of Utah Department of Pediatrics Kimberly Gonzalez, MA, Lisa Smith, RN, Joni Hemond, MD Introduction Results Discussion • A supportive and connected workplace is essential to both employee well-being and quality care delivery • Clinic staff were observed to be generally performing well; however, there was a noticeable gap in how connected and appreciated staff felt in their day-to-day work • Our clinic sought to better understand staff experiences and identify opportunities to enhance workplace culture • Insights informed the development of a Joy in Work initiative to address the Recognition & Rewards and Camaraderie & Teamwork components of the IHI Framework for Improving Joy in Work (Perlo et al., 2017) Although only 63% of staff participated in the initial Get to Know You survey, 81% expressed interest in participating in future initiatives, including those who had not previously taken part. Focusing on team cohesion through small acts of recognition and rewards has been associated with increased team trust and improved job satisfaction. Limitations & Barriers • Low initial Get to Know You survey engagement which was intended to help kick off other recognition initiatives from the responses received • Little to no funds for supplies • Differences in personal preference for recognition amongst a large staff population Valuable Lessons Learned • Overcoming barriers like low survey engagement, limited funds, and varying personal preferences for recognition requires flexibility and creative solutions to ensure all staff feel valued • To support ongoing staff engagement, a brief daily job satisfaction poll could be implemented at the clock-out station to regularly monitor employee morale and inform any necessary adjustments Methods & Strategy • Initiated What Matters to You? conversations to explore staff experiences and perspectives, guided by the IHI Framework • Use staff experiences and perspectives to enhance workplace culture by boosting moral, fostering sense of value, and improving connections between staff • Increase staff recognition with the aim to create a more joyful work environment Conclusion Implemented Improvement Interventions • • • • • • Monthly All About Me spotlights New Resident Intern spotlights Gratefulness Thank You Cards Get to Know You survey Birthday goodie bags Farewell potlucks “ I loved it! I felt a lot of appreciation from these small moments that probably took no effort yet had a high impact on me. ” - staff member • Applying intentional recognition efforts, can positively impact staff morale and team connection • Increased participation and interest in recognition initiatives suggest growing engagement, even among initially hesitant staff • Consistent, inclusive strategies can build a culture of appreciation, connection, and joy in work References: Perlo J, Balik B, Swensen S, Kabcenell A, Landsman J, Feeley D. IHI Framework for Improving Joy in Work. Cambridge, MA: Institute for Healthcare Improvement; 2017. South Main Clinic