5 Ways to Show Your Employees Appreciation
It is a simple fact that employees enjoy going to work more when they feel appreciated by their employer. Employees who enjoy their work are more productive, provide better customer service, and miss fewer work days. So, boost morale and give recognition to your employees!
Don’t know where to start? Here are a few tips on how to show your employees appreciation:
1. Have birthday/anniversary lunches monthly
Show your employees some love by celebrating their birthday or anniversary with the team. Organizing a group event recognizing everyone with birthdays or work anniversaries that month is a good way to show employees they are valued. Don't forget to use Zoom and other platforms to include and celebrate with remote team members. In addition, each department can contribute to this lunch so they can get in on the action while celebrating their colleague.
2. Send out an “Employee of the Month” email to all of your employees, or write a newsletter
Having an “Employee of the Month” is a good way to highlight the employee and make them feel special. It may seem old-fashioned, but it motivates employees to strive to be the best and work toward something. In the email or article, mention the reasons why they earned this award. Not only will this make the employee feel appreciated, but it will also create a positive atmosphere in the workplace. Also, a good incentive for the winner would be a reserved parking space for a month, a front-row seat, and easy access to the building. There’s nothing better than a great parking spot at work!
3. Plan a company-wide event
Get together outside of work with your employees and have some fun. This could include taking your employees to the zoo, having a picnic at a park, volunteering, singing karaoke at a restaurant, or going to a sports game! Not only are all of these activities super fun, but they will also be a good way to bond with your employees and relieve the stress built up at work while sharing a few laughs. Make it an activity everyone can enjoy and participate in. To keep it easy and fun for everyone, let employees take turns planning and organizing outings.
4. Value your employees’ opinions
Always value the opinions of your employees, regardless of their position. Make sure your employee knows that you’re taking their ideas and opinions into consideration. It will increase their confidence and make them feel valued. After all, they may come up with something great that would benefit the company!
5. Give words of encouragement
Sometimes a simple “good job” is refreshing to hear after a hard day’s work or after completing a project. Whether you’re walking by offices or in a meeting, make an effort to show your employees that you care. If it wasn’t for all of their hard work you would not be where you are now. Never assume that they already know how much you appreciate them. Here are some words of encouragement you can tell your employees: “Thank you for all of your hard work,” “You are a great asset to our team,” or “I’m grateful for all of the time you worked on this project.” Remember to personalize your words to make it specific to that individual. That way, they know you are sincere and genuine.
6. Put it in writing — and mail your cards!
To make your encouragement even more special and lasting, put it in writing. This is especially important with remote team members. There is nothing better than a hand written note or greeting card to show your employees you care. It’s a tangible reminder that they are appreciated. Even better, make it a point to give it to them personally or by mail. When you mail them, the whole family sees that they are appreciated!