Employee Appreciation – It Matters
Posted Oct 07, 2019
When was the last time you told a co-worker, colleague or employee how much they are valued? Employee appreciation is a critical aspect of employee retention. When employees feel appreciated for the work they do, they’re happier and more likely to be engaged.
Here are eight ways to show your appreciation to employees and coworkers:
- Pay Attention– Acknowledge when someone has done a great job. You can do this by leaving a hand-written note, stop by to personally recognize them or surprise them with a small gift.
- ‘Thank You’ and ‘Please’ Go A Long Way – Don’t forget to say thank you and please. Showing appreciation will earn you respect and set a tone of politeness around the office.
- Co-workers Interests – Get to know your co-workers and employees. Showing a genuine interest creates the feeling that they are valued and cared about.
- Plan for Success – Create goals and an action plan for employee recognition. Recognizing your employees will make your employees happy and your organization more productive. Be specific about why the individual is receiving the recognition.
- The Gift of Time – Time is often the thing that many of us just don’t get enough of. Show your employees appreciation by giving the gift of that time back. After a big goal is met or project completed, let your employees take the rest of the day off with pay.
- Food Is Always A Winner – Food is a great way to show your appreciation. Whether it’s bringing food in or going out to eat, food is an easy way to reward hard-working staff. Be sure to include food choices for those who are healthy eaters or have dietary restrictions.
- Money Talks – consider as part of your Employee Appreciation Plan what kind of financial incentives you will offer such as bonuses, gift cards, food, etc.
- Company Retreat – If your budget permits, plan a yearly trip that includes a company meeting paired with something fun. This is great way to reward your staff and team build.
Employee appreciation should be a core value for your organization. It’s important not to reserve your appreciation for special occasions, but to make it a part of your standard practice. By saying thank you on a regular basis you acknowledge their work and let them know you care.
Contributed by: Amy Noel