One of the best ways to create workplace happiness and improve employee morale is to appreciate your employees. This article will describe 3 easy ways to do that. Don’t wait until an employee is perfect at something until you show your appreciation. Instead, appreciate their progress and watch them smile. What’s more, watch your employees’ motivation skyrocket.
Everyone likes to feel appreciated. It doesn’t take a lot to go a little out of your way to show your appreciation and gratitude, whether it be from a letter or card, a simple gift, or a lunch. A simple gesture can go a long way in making an employee feel valued, respected, and happier at work.
Here’s an example of positive results from an appreciated employee.
I had an internship as a recreation supervisor at a resort one summer. My father drove with me cross-country to California where the resort was located. The recreation director invited my father and I to have brunch with her at the resort restaurant to show her appreciation and to welcome me. It was a very nice gesture, and set the tone for a positive summer experience.
In addition, later on she invited the other recreation supervisor and me to her house for dinner to show appreciation and encourage familiarity with each other. Because of these two experiences of being appreciated, I really enjoyed working at my position, and wanted to do exceptional work for my director.
Three Ways you can show appreciation to your employees.
- Recognition in front of their peers – Awarding Recognition Certificates and a small gift for an achievement or progress on a project, or awarding a certificate for a personality quality such as: persistence, creative thinking, cheerfulness is very motivating to all employees. It shows that they, too, will be valued for their contributions.
- Written appreciation letter to their family – Can you imagine an employees spouse opening a letter complimenting a wife or husband. This is a letter that creates a WOW moment at home, and is sure to be treasured.
- On the spot verbal appreciation – Immediate appreciation for something can be as simple as a compliment: “You handled that difficult customer with confidence and understanding.” This gives your employees the feeling that you pay attention to them, and that you value them for doing their best at their jobs.
Showing appreciation to your employees raises their happiness level, improves employee morale, and is the best way you can motivate your employees. Do something every week to appreciate each employee.
