Acknowledge a significant contribution

Good ideas are sometimes whispered. The biggest contributor is sometimes hidden in the shadows. Hard work is best appreciated when it occurs without fanfare in support of passion. These are contributions that when appreciated, have long-lasting impact on intrinsic motivation.

Find the people who worked hard to exceed expectations and did so in a big way, or even in a small way.  And then make sure that each one of them knows that there are many other people in the organization, including and especially you, who truly appreciate the contribution and the sacrifices that they have made to the organization.

Sometimes just a “thank you” is enough.