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This a 1-page summary from a conversation Open Org had with Alys Peart (Octopus EV), James Hems (Bluewave) and Lewis Quick (Huggg) on how we build & retain human recognition in an increasingly AI dominated world.
You can watch the full video below too.
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With Alys Pearce (Octopus EV), James Hems (Bluewave), and Lewis Quick (Huggg)
In this session we explored recognition as a cultural practice, not a perk or a platform feature. Alys, James and Lewis talked about the difference between recognition, appreciation and reward, how recognition shows up inside real teams, why it still matters in an AI dominated world, and what people leaders can do to embed it without forcing it. The session also highlighted the risks of leaning too hard into AI for human moments, and the power of small gestures that make people feel seen.
James explained recognition using an analogy that landed with the whole group. Recognition is the act. Appreciation is how the person feels. And the way you give recognition matters, because everyone has a different preference or “flavour”.
He described how giving the wrong flavour of ice cream can turn good intentions into a miss.
Recognition that works is specific, thoughtful and matched to the person.
Verbatim quotes from James:
“Recognition is the act and it is free and infinite. Anyone can give it to anyone for anything at any time.”
“You give me vanilla ice cream when my favourite is chocolate. It is still a kind gesture but it is not the thing that really hits for me.”
This analogy landed because it’s simple, human and instantly memorable. It shows how easy it is to get recognition technically right but emotionally wrong.
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