Whatever your business, your ship wouldn’t sail without all the right people doing what they need to do. If you take care of your employees, they will take care of you, and there’s no better time to show your appreciation than National Employee Appreciation Day, which is tomorrow - March 4, 2022.
If this holiday snuck up on you, you’re not alone. Fortunately, it’s not too late to show your team you care. If possible, take time today to share some kind words or write a note of appreciation for each team member. Use each employee’s name and a specific example of something you appreciate so your message feels personal, authentic, and heartfelt.
If you’re out of the office today and can’t make it happen, that’s OK too. You can send a belated note of appreciation when you return. After all, you’re only human and if you approach it with a little humility and a smile, your team will love you all the more.
Don’t stop with one gesture. Employee appreciation should continue throughout the year. Try to schedule one employee appreciation event or gesture every month, so the positive vibes never wear off. Here are some ideas.
1. Extra day off
They work hard for you all year. One extra day off to show your appreciation reminds them that you care about their wellbeing. They can use the extra day to rest and rejuvenate and they will return to work with even more incentive to do an excellent job for your company.
2. Free pass to a local garden, landmark, or museum
With so much time spent working, employees are sure to appreciate a day pass to a local outdoor garden, landmark or museum. Sometimes people forget to visit all the wonderful places in their own city. They will certainly remember you and feel appreciated while enjoying an adventurous outing with their family or friends.
3. Bring in breakfast
Why not surprise your team with breakfast every once in a while? Order in some delicious breakfast burritos or waffles and pancakes. Bring in a mobile coffee cart like Kate and Jo’s Coffee Truck to spoil your employees with freshly made cappuccinos or lattes in the office. Employees will surely appreciate this kind gesture.
4. Goodie package
Who doesn’t feel appreciated after receiving a gift package? With companies like Thriver, you can send employees all kinds of goodies—from snack boxes to swag and apparel to experiences and even gift bundles! Their custom Employee Appreciation packages include a Sweet & Salty Gift Box, a Game Night Gift Box, a Happy Hour Gift Box, The Retreat-Relaxing Spa Care Package, and more.
5. Fun outings during work hours
Fun and during work hours are the two key elements here. Plan small group outings that appeal to the personalities within each team. For some, going on a hike or a nature walk may be fun. Others may prefer to battle each other in a game truck or problem solve at an escape room. Some may want to go to a local museum or on a scavenger hunt around the city.
6. Creature comforts
Have you noticed that almost everyone loves pets? Invite a local partner to bring in therapy dogs, llamas, horses, or other pets to your workplace. Your team will go wild!
7. Gift cards
Gift cards are a tried and true way to show gratitude to your employees. Sprinkle a few in between the other, more unexpected ideas in this article. You can pick up cards to local coffee shops, eateries, and stores. Try to support local businesses if possible. Consider giving unexpected cards that team members can use to treat their families, kids, or pets.
Small gestures go a long way
A little bit can go a long way when it comes to employee appreciation. According to this VantageCircle article, employee appreciation is the most cost-effective way to boost company morale. The article says that “Employees who feel valued and appreciated at the workplace would not hesitate to cover an extra mile for the organization.”
This Buzzz article states that those who feel valued at work experience greater self-esteem which increases their satisfaction with their work and ability to contribute to the company. It also helps with employee retention as 21% of people leave their jobs due to lack of appreciation, according to a survey from PlanBeyond.
So, if you haven’t already done so, take time today to begin planning your year-round employee appreciation outreach. Never let your team forget that you genuinely care!
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