Recognition is genuinely valuing the contributions of members. All SLSC members need to recognise fellow members as everyone deserves some form of recognition, even if it is a simple ‘thank you’ for helping.
It is also very important for Club Management Team members and their volunteer officers to promote the recognition of SLSC members as members who feel recognised and rewarded for their efforts are more likely to be retained by their SLSC.
Ways to recognise members may include:
- Allocating noticeboard space to applaud member achievement and accomplishment
- Celebrating achievements and efforts
- Celebrating National Volunteer Week and National Youth Week
- Enabling members to develop skills and grow on the job
- Encouraging member participation and consultation in planning that affects their work
- Encouraging member participation and consultation in team planning
- Giving additional responsibility (when desired)
- Involving members in special events
- Issuing certificates of appreciation
- Keeping members informed via formal SLSC communication channels
- Organising medals, certificates or plaques to recognise achievements and contributions
- Organising to have them featured in the SLSNSW SurfLife Magazine
- Recognising personal needs
- Recommending members to prospective employers and providing letters of reference
- Taking the time to listen to members ideas and concerns.
As a general guideline when providing recognition, you should:
- Consistently recognise everyone’s contribution
- Enthusiastically provide recognition to encourage positive attitudes and behaviours
- Immediately recognise effort as soon as it has taken place
- Provide specific and personal recognition
- Sincerely mean what you are saying.