How do you recognize program team and project manager achievements?

1 Context matters

The first step to recognize program team and project manager achievements is to understand the context of their work. Different programs and projects may have different goals, challenges, risks, and stakeholders, and you need to tailor your recognition accordingly. For example, you may want to acknowledge the creativity and innovation of a team that delivered a new product, or the resilience and adaptability of a team that faced a major change or crisis. You also need to consider the individual preferences and personalities of your team members and project managers, and how they like to receive recognition. Some may prefer public praise, while others may value private feedback or tangible rewards.

2 Criteria matters

The second step to recognize program team and project manager achievements is to define the criteria for your recognition. You need to have clear and measurable standards for what constitutes an achievement, and how it aligns with the program and organizational objectives. You also need to ensure that your recognition is fair, consistent, and transparent, and that you avoid favoritism or bias. For example, you may want to use a balanced scorecard approach that evaluates the quality, scope, time, cost, and stakeholder satisfaction of the program and project outcomes. You may also want to include qualitative indicators, such as feedback, testimonials, or awards, that reflect the impact and value of the work.

3 Communication matters

The third step to recognize program team and project manager achievements is to communicate your recognition effectively and appropriately. You need to choose the right time, mode, and tone for your recognition, and make it specific, sincere, and meaningful. You also need to balance the frequency and intensity of your recognition, and avoid overdoing it or underdoing it. For example, you may want to use a combination of formal and informal recognition methods, such as performance reviews, awards ceremonies, newsletters, emails, or verbal acknowledgments. You may also want to use positive and constructive language, and highlight the strengths, skills, and contributions of your team members and project managers.

Recognizing program team and project manager achievements is not only a good practice, but also a strategic one. It can help you foster a culture of excellence, collaboration, and learning in your program and organization. It can also help you attract, retain, and develop talent, and enhance your reputation and credibility as a program manager.

4 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?