25% of recognition programs ineffective for millennials: survey

Recognition programs at one in four employers don’t sit well for millennials, according to a new survey by Aon Hewitt and O.C. Tanner.

The study, which examined recognition programs at more than 470 employers in five countries, determined young employees want their achievements acknowledged by management much sooner than previous generations did.

Read: 5 tips to improve employee recognition

“Being recognized and thanked by leaders in a meaningful way and on a frequent basis not only gives millennial workers a rewarding experience, but also strengthens their personal connection to the organization and encourages them to continue to be key contributors,” Neil Shastri, leader of global insights and innovation at Aon Hewitt, said in a release.

Read: Employee recognition programs continue upward trend

The top ways to recognize millennials, the study found, are handwritten notes, experiential rewards such as event tickets, and thank yous from peers, managers and senior executives.