Ways to Show Employee Appreciation
Employees appreciate good pay, and this is the primary reason that people get up in the morning to go to their jobs. They also appreciate it when their employers express some appreciation for their efforts in ways that go beyond the provision of a paycheck. Making the effort to let your employees know that you appreciate their work will make them feel better and be more productive at work.
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A Simple Conversation
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While high-profile events such as Christmas parties and employee of the year awards are appreciated, they aren't enough without a day-to-day culture of appreciation and gratitude. Maintaining a positive relationship with your employees, and not just expressing it but knowing the details of the work they are doing, will go a long way in a workplace. It's a simple thing that doesn't cost employers a penny, yet there are many workplaces where it never happens, and low morale and bitterness are often the result. Don't express appreciation after reading a management textbook about how to do it. Most people will see right through that. If your gratitude to your employees isn't genuine, you need to give more thought to where your business would be without them.
Flexible Hours
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A real world benefit that you can give your employees to express thanks for their work is to allow them to come to work at times that are convenient for them. This can make a huge difference in the lives of people with small children, long commutes or other commitments. Depending on the nature and needs of your business, hours can be completely flexible, or partially flexible, for example allowing employees to arrive at 7, 8 or 9 a.m. and leave at 3, 4 or 5 p.m. Most employees are flexible with their employers to the extent that they sense their employers being flexible with them. Allowing flexible hours sends the message that you are thinking about their needs as well as your own.
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Individual Treatment
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Knowing your employees as individuals can help you to interact with them in ways that they will appreciate. Some employees need a lot of attention and direction, while others prefer to be left alone. If your employees are just numbers to you, you won't know this and will constantly be inadvertently stepping on toes. Taking the time to know your employees will be appreciated.
Parties and Bonuses
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Show your appreciation every December by having a great holiday party. If your business is doing well, don't be cheap about it. Hire a band and have a great time. Give out generous end-of-the-year bonuses to everyone, and get the entire company into a positive state of mind to start off the new year. If your employees love parties, organize costume parties for Valentine's Day and Halloween. Go out for a beverage every Friday afternoon.
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