Strategies for Staff Recognition

Abstract

The Director's Forum series is written and edited by Robert J. Weber and Scott M. Mark and is designed to guide pharmacy leaders in establishing patient-centered services in hospitals and health systems. Developing an effective practice model depends on recruiting and sustaining a highly qualified workforce of pharmacists and technicians. Recognition of that workforce is a vital communication tool that reinforces and rewards the most important endpoints in the workplace. When staff are recognized effectively, they are encouraged to continue their “good” actions. An effective staff recognition program should be simple, consistent, individualized, and conducive to good behavior. A recognition program is beneficial for both the organization and the staff. Pharmacy directors should consider their department's strategies for making their staff feel appreciated and an integral part of the practice model. Implementing staff recognition strategies will result in a motivated pharmacy staff whose commitment will be realized in an effective pharmacy practice model.