As an HR professional, what is one effective method you personally recommend for showing appreciation in the workplace? Here is what four thought leaders had to say.
- Implement a ‘Thank You’ Card Program
- Organize Frequent Appreciation Lunches
- Provide Additional Well-Being Days
- Offer Personalized Lifestyle Benefits
Implement a ‘Thank You’ Card Program
One effective method I personally recommend for showing appreciation in the workplace is implementing a “Thank You” card program. This involves providing physical or digital cards that employees can use to express gratitude and recognition to their colleagues for their efforts and contributions.
Implementation Steps:
Provide Access: Distribute physical or digital “Thank You” cards that employees can easily access.
Encourage Usage: Promote the program through internal communications, encouraging employees to use the cards regularly to acknowledge their peers.
Share Publicly: Create a bulletin board or a digital platform where these cards can be shared and viewed by the entire team, highlighting acts of appreciation.
Benefits:
Boosts Morale: Regular recognition makes employees feel valued and appreciated, leading to higher morale.
Fosters Team Spirit: Encouraging peer-to-peer recognition strengthens team bonds and promotes a supportive work environment.
Increases Engagement: Feeling appreciated motivates employees to stay engaged and committed to their work.
Enhances Workplace Culture: A culture of gratitude and recognition contributes to a positive and collaborative workplace.
Implementing a “Thank You” card program is a simple yet powerful way to show appreciation and make a significant impact on employee satisfaction and engagement.
Ana Alipat, Recruitment Team Lead, Dayjob Recruitment
Organize Frequent Appreciation Lunches
One way I suggest learning to say ‘thank you’ is to organize frequent ‘Appreciation Lunches.’ These are informal gatherings held to recognize those of your employees who work hard and contribute to the success of your organization over dinner together.
The manager agrees with the designated employees, publicly tells them about their strengths and achievements, and expresses their thanks. These lunches help create an environment of gratitude and offer the opportunity to create a family-style environment where people speak their minds.
We’ve been doing this for years, and, to date, it has been a very effective tool in creating a positive environment for employees who feel valued and motivated to continue hard work to sustain what they currently do and continue to improve what they are capable of.
Sunaree Komolchomalee, Head of Human Resources, Cupid Digital PR Agency
Provide Additional Well-Being Days
Offer Well-Being Days! Provide additional days off specifically for employees to focus on their mental and physical well-being. This is such a meaningful way to show you care about their health and happiness. Stress and burnout are common challenges that can significantly impact an employee’s productivity and overall job satisfaction. By offering dedicated well-being days, you acknowledge the importance of self-care and give your employees the opportunity to recharge.
These well-being days can be used for a variety of activities that promote health and relaxation, such as attending fitness classes, visiting a spa, engaging in a favorite hobby, or simply taking time to rest and disconnect from work. Encouraging employees to take a break and focus on their well-being can lead to numerous benefits, including reduced stress levels, improved mental health, and increased motivation.
Moreover, well-being days can foster a positive workplace culture where employees feel valued and supported. When employees see that their employer genuinely cares about their well-being, it can enhance their loyalty and commitment to the organization. This, in turn, can lead to higher retention rates and a more engaged workforce.
Implementing well-being days is a proactive approach to addressing employee wellness, demonstrating that the company prioritizes a healthy work-life balance. It sends a powerful message that the organization recognizes employees as holistic individuals with needs beyond their professional roles. By investing in their well-being, you create a more resilient and productive team, ultimately benefiting the entire organization.
Vanessa Anello, Professional Development Consultant, Workforce Charm, LLC
Offer Personalized Lifestyle Benefits
As an HR professional and the CEO of Compt, I have a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities in creating a supportive workplace culture. My background as a two-time former COO and three-time former CFO, including a stint during the 2008 market crash, required me to navigate complex HR and financial landscapes, focusing on meaningful support for employees during tough times. This experience has shaped my approach to HR and benefits in a unique way.
One effective method I personally recommend for showing appreciation in the workplace is implementing personalized lifestyle benefits. Instead of the traditional one-size-fits-all perks, offering customizable benefits that cater to the diverse needs and interests of employees truly demonstrates that you value them as individuals.
When employees can choose benefits that resonate with their personal lives, whether it’s fitness memberships, meal allowances, or childcare support, it shows that the company is committed to their overall well-being. This personalized approach boosts morale and fosters a culture of genuine appreciation and support.
Investing in personalized benefits sends a powerful message: “We see you, we value you, and we’re here to support your unique needs.” It’s a tangible way to show appreciation and make a positive impact on your team’s lives both inside and outside the workplace.
Amy Spurling, CEO/Founder, Compt
