Not being recognized for your efforts can be disheartening, and it’s often the case when there’s trouble at the workplace, says San Francisco wrongful termination attorney Jeremy Pasternak. Contrast a healthy workplace, where employees know they’re needed and management makes sure to show that their efforts are appreciated.
Case in point? Employee Appreciation Day. This is the time to pull out all the stops to make your employees feel valued. You might be running short on ideas, though, in which case you should read ahead. This article will provide some inspiration for what you should be trying the next time Employee Appreciation Day rolls around.
Peer-to-Peer Appreciation
Few people know the hard hours your team has been putting in better than your team itself. That’s why making time for your employees to show some appreciation to each other is so key. You should provide ample time for your team to say what they want to say and sing each other’s praises as they revel in the joys of Appreciation Day.
Team Field Trip
If you thought field trips were just for kids, then you’re sorely mistaken. Getting the team together for an excursion to someplace new is just the thing to show that they matter. You might head to a local garden, park, museum, or gallery to bring the team together as one.
Team Lunch or Happy Hour
In addition to the field trip, you can get the whole team together in a casual lunch or after-work drinking setting. This will provide your workers with a bit of room to breathe, and an opportunity to socialize without fear of being on the clock. Just one thing to note, though, is that if there’s alcohol, make sure everyone indulges in moderation.
Team Competition
We’re not talking about anything work-related here, but a few friendly team games can help bring everyone together and get them working on the same frequency. Options include a bit of trivia, a scavenger hunt, or maybe even some board games that won’t cause too much friction between your team members.
Company Gifts
Nothing says “you’re valued” like material compensation. You don’t even have to spend big to show employees that you care. Quality office “swag” is always a great way to go, but if you know your crew more personally, then something that speaks to their unique tastes might do even better, and shouldn’t be too hard to track down.
Show Your Employees What They Mean
Expressing your gratitude correctly is important, and Employee Appreciation Day will be just the time to make the right impression. Try some of these ideas on for size, and your team will be looking forward to Employee Appreciation Day every time it comes around.
