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Appreciation

Top 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, why not boost morale and give recognition to your employees?

Most employers understand the importance of employee relations but don’t know where to start. If you’re one of those bosses with the nagging feeling that you should be doing more to encourage your team, 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. 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 does motivate employees to strive to be the best and work for something. In the email or article, mention reasons on why they earned this award. Not only will this make the employee feel appreciated, it will create a positive atmosphere in the workplace. Also, a good incentive for the winner would be a set parking space for a month – front row 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 release all of the stress built up from the workplace while sharing a few laughs. Make it an activity that everyone will be able to 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 despite their job position. Often times, higher level positions undermine the ideas of someone below them. Not only does this create a negative work atmosphere, it also disables the employee from possibly making the company better. In other words, make sure your employee knows that you’re taking their ideas and opinions into consideration. If not, this will decrease their confidence and make them feel undervalued. After all, they could come up with something great that will be beneficial to 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. After all, 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.

To make your encouragement even more special and lasting, put it in writing. 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.

Build better business relationships.