sidekudos

Sidekudos is a term used to describe informal, peer-to-peer recognition for contributions that may not receive formal credit. The word blends side, meaning secondary or behind-the-scenes, with kudos, meaning praise. Sidekudos are typically given by colleagues to acknowledge help, collaboration, or small but meaningful acts that support a project or team.

Characteristics: They are usually spontaneous, brief, and either public or private. Delivery occurs in team chats, emails, or dedicated recognition channels, and they may reference a specific action or ongoing cooperative effort rather than a single achievement.

Purpose and usage: Sidekudos surface teamwork and reinforce positive behavior without involving formal performance processes. They complement formal rewards and can be part of a broader appreciation culture. Common formats include quick shout-outs in meetings, posts on a kudos board, or notes in newsletters.

Benefits and challenges: Sidekudos can boost morale, trust, and collaboration, and help quieter contributors feel valued. Potential drawbacks include uneven participation, bias in who receives praise, and the risk of diluting significance if overused or misapplied compared with formal recognition.

Context: Sidekudos are found in many settings, from software teams to open-source projects to volunteer organizations, especially in remote or distributed work environments. They are distinct from formal performance reviews but can inform and reinforce ongoing recognition programs.