The Power of Unexpected Praise How Small Recognition Makes a Big Impact
Psychologists have a term for it the spotlight effect. It’s the tendency to believe that others pay far more attention to our behavior or appearance than they actually do. Most people experience this to some degree, overestimating how much others notice their actions, what they say, or how they look.
On the flip side of that cognitive bias is the feeling that no one recognizes our efforts, especially at work. Until they do.
Last week, Bills quarterback Josh Allen, currently the 14th-highest-paid quarterback in the NFL, was awarded the Most Valuable Player award. As he accepted the honor, he thanked the usual suspects: the Bills’ owners, general manager, head coach, teammates, and support staff. But one key figure stood out in Allen’s recognition: “Slick” Rick Morrow, a 15-year Bills employee.
Morrow, who’s dedicated his career to the team, says, “I love my job, and I wouldn’t want to work anywhere else in the world. I’m living the dream.” But despite his passion, he never expected recognition for his hard work.
That recognition, however, meant the world to him.
For many employees, salary is the primary form of acknowledgment for their contributions. As Don Draper famously said, “That’s what the money’s for!” But as this story shows, praise and recognition—especially when unexpected—can have an even greater impact. A simple, off-the-cuff acknowledgment of someone’s efforts, when they least expect it, can make all the difference.
Next time you notice someone doing something good, offer them praise—out of the blue, not tied to an evaluation or performance review. It’s the unexpected recognition that leaves the most lasting impression.
