KR HR & TRAINING NEWS ARTICLES

We all love to feel appreciated at work so what better way to mark “National Employee Appreciation Day” than by expressing gratitude to team members for their valuable contributions.

A staggering 59% of employees feel they have had a manager who never appreciated them.  Here is how not be that manager!

Why does employee appreciation matter?

Lack of recognition remains one of the most common reasons why employees leave an organisation.   Organisations with recognition programmes have employees that are 82% happier!

Demonstrating frequent and specific employee appreciation can have a huge impact on employee retention and relationships, fostering a positive working environment.  When employees feel valued, they naturally want to work harder as they feel their efforts are being recognised and appreciated in the workplace.  Valued employees are more loyal, engaged and motivated at work.

Tips for showing meaningful appreciation for your team

• Be specific.  Personalisation adds sincerity and is more meaningful than generic praise
• Be timely.  Immediate recognition for a job well done reinforces positive behaviour and enhances its impact
• Understand people’s preferences for recognition – some people may love being celebrated in a team meeting, whereas others may prefer feedback in private.
• Consistency is key (appreciation is not a one-off event)
• Encourage peer to peer recognition.  This can be a powerful tool for building a positive workplace culture. 
• Be genuine and authentic

Employee Appreciation Day Ideas

1. Have a team lunch.  If your team work remotely coordinate a virtual team lunch with personalised meal deliveries.
2. Personalised appreciation letters.  Write a handwritten note for each team member highlighting specific achievements and contributions.
3. Give social media recognition.  If your company is active on social media, give your team a shout-out!  If you use Breathe HR, give out some Kudos!
4. Participate in Wellness Activities, such as mindfulness, or walking/running groups or provide healthcare benefits that can be used for varied activities from massage to health screening.
5. Have an away day – rock-climbing or zip wiring, a volunteering project or simply a duvet day to recharge batteries!

It is not hard to make employees feel valued and noticed.  Take time throughout the year to make small gestures of gratitude cultivating a culture of appreciation beyond Employee Appreciation Day.