Employers champion recognition for loyalty; Half of workers get it rarely or only for big wins
Nearly half of Canadian companies lack the resources to deliver effective employee recognition, even though 99 percent of hiring managers believe it matters.
This gap presents a strategic challenge—and opportunity—for organizations wrestling with retention and engagement.
According to an Express Employment Professionals and Harris Poll survey of 500 Canadian hiring decision-makers, recognition carries real weight in the talent equation.
As per the findings, 92 percent of employers report recognition significantly boosts loyalty, while 82 percent say it reduces turnover.
Nearly 9 in 10 (87 percent) view it as a competitive advantage, and 75 percent indicate willingness to invest in it for long-term success.
Yet when job seekers tell their story, a different picture emerges.
Harris Poll's separate survey of 503 Canadian adults revealed that only 49 percent receive regular recognition—half say companies save it for major wins.
Monthly recognition frequencies remain sparse: just 21 percent report private praise, 20 percent receive public recognition, and 16 percent see company shoutouts.
More than 1 in 10 experience recognition once a year or less.
The disconnect matters because 85 percent of job seekers agree non-monetary recognition makes them feel valued, reported by Harris Poll.
When recognized, workers report feeling valued (58 percent), experiencing morale gains (47 percent) and becoming more engaged (46 percent)—outcomes directly tied to retention and productivity.
Companies currently rely on private praise from managers (46 percent), public recognition in meetings (36 percent), on-the-spot awards like extra time off (35 percent) and company communications (33 percent).
However, these efforts remain inconsistent.
Personalized, varied approaches drive stronger outcomes.
According to Forbes, recognition can produce a 366 percent increase in fulfillment and 208 percent increase in community.
Bob Funk Jr., CEO of Express Employment International, said “Recognition builds trust and strengthens teams.” He noted that when companies prioritize recognition, productivity increases.
