How often do you say “Thank You” to your employees?
Do they think you mean it? We learned from our parents, grandparents, teachers, mentors, etc., that saying “thank you” is polite and respectful. When did thanking someone, specifically an employee/co-worker become a meaningless habit?
Continuous motivation, high employee-satisfaction ratings, and increased productivity are all results of appreciating your employees. Everyone loves to be recognized for their hard work and all of the hours they have put in to make a project or company successful. Team building is such an important factor and ultimately contributes to improved company morale. With Employee Appreciation Day taking the first Friday in March, we’ve come up with a list of things you can do to recognize your team how much you really admire their efforts!
1. Company Potlucks
This is a great way of showing the diversity within the company and a great way to instigate conversation. People from different departments are able to join together and not only learn a few things about different cultures, but most importantly, learn about who they work with.
2. Happy Hour or Dinner
Nothing is more appreciated by employees than knowing they are able to leave work at work, but still get to enjoy the company of their co-workers. It sets a relaxing tone with more bonding than happens within the office environment.
3. Celebrate small and big milestones
Having everyone sign a birthday card, blowing out candles on a birthday cake, or even throwing a baby shower for an employee makes a team member feel extremely valued and appreciated.
4. Summer Fridays
These are the best! After a rough week, leaving early on a Friday is something employees are sure to love. It’s a simple gesture, but people are always glad to start their weekend at 3pm on a hot, summer day.
5. Say “Thank You,” in different ways
Again, simple gestures go a long way. Verbally thanking an employee can be the highlight of their day. Call them into your office and state how proud you are of them, or even leave a surprise sticky note letting them know you’re aware of their efforts.
6. Gift Cards
Gift cards are a great way to recognize your team members for a job well done, or going the extra mile on a project. Even a $5 gift card for coffee, local grocery store, or favorite lunch/restaurant shows how much you appreciate their hard work.
7. Health and Wellness Programs
Introduce health and wellness programs, including gym memberships or wellness days. Bring in a massage therapist and have employees sign up for 20 minute massage blocks of time throughout the day. Make sure they know how much they are valued and the importance of work, life, balance.
8. Peer-to-Peer Recognition
Use digital platforms for peer-to-peer recognition and rewards for gift cards or time off. This is a great opportunity for co-workers to “shout-out” a job well done, or a thank you for going out of your way, or working hard to get a project over the finish line.
9. Go big or go home!
If you’re located within the tri-state area, come to the big apple and take a happy hour cruise with City Crusies. The Alive After Five happy hour cruise is the perfect way for employees to relax and take in scenic views from the waterways. Your team will realize they’re part of a great company that offers exceptional perks. And nothings beats that!
People value sincerity and all the world’s top business leaders will tell you, success begins with its people. Make sure keeping your employees happy is a top priority, because without them your company wouldn’t be the success it is today. Looking for more team building ideas?
Original Post Date: February 27, 2019