Maybe it’s just because I came from a big family that didn’t have too much money? ??Maybe I feel more entitled than I should? ??Maybe I’m just needy? ??Whatever the case, I am greatly motivated by being recognized for the value I bring to my work. ??Sure I like monetary awards… but my personal motivation is fueled by more than cash.

In today’s workplace, there are lots of talented people and one way to stand out is to have your successes publicly documented by others. ??In other words, have a great reputation. ??While I can blog about my own exploits and triumphs, my reputation is really driven by awareness and/or validation from others. ??So I get a warm & fuzzy feeling when that validation comes in public settings.

Earlier this week there was a story featured on my company’s main intranet page regarding a recent announcement of CIO Leadership Awards. ?? This caught my eye as there appears to be an ever-declining trend to award programs as a result of the current economic environment. ??So I was really happy to see this high visibility recognition program. ??Reviewing the article, it certainly sounded as though there were several interesting projects recognized. ??However, I must confess I was disappointed to find I didn’t recognize any of the projects/teams. Where were my peers? ??Hell, where were my projects?

Regardless if these kinds of team awards have a monetary component or not, I think the broader recognition and visibility is a great motivator. ??I know I would feel proud if something I worked on was recognized publically in this manner. ?? Reputation building has always been important for career growth but it seems in today’s ‘flat’ and wired world, having electronic trails of your reputation has increasing value and importance. ??

As @ceonyc opined in one of his recent posts (Blunt advice for MBAs who want to work at startups), “wouldn???t I rather have a note from someone… (with) a twitter account where 500 more people follow you than follow you back???and indication that you say things worth listening to.” ??While having a twitter following is only one dimension of online reputation, it can provide validated evidence of your value…. just as internal recognition in the form of awards can. ??And many of these kinds of recognition & reputation building motivators don’t have any hard-dollar costs.

Seems to me that making people feel good and valued through recognition systems is more important today than ever before…. and its really inexpensive too. Of course I’ll still take cash but flattery and recognition can keep me motivated too.