Employee Appreciation Day, marked annually on 1st March, is an opportunity for employers to show their thanks to their employees for their hard work. Originating in the USA, some may see it as a bit of a gimmick , particularly those who already offer competitive salaries and a valued package of benefits all year round. But nevertheless it provides an opportunity for employers to actually stop and reflect on what your employees contribute to the business and say ‘thank you’.
If you need a reason why you should voice your appreciation, research has shown that employees who feel valued are more engaged, more productive and more innovative – which is all great news for your business.
Keen to show your team some appreciation and looking for some inspiration? Here are a few ideas to use on employee appreciation day:
Just say “Thank You”
Sometimes the simplest and most obvious options are the most meaningful. Taking time to acknowledge someone’s contribution and impact on your business can be a really effective way to show someone they are valued.
- Consider writing each individual a thank you note
- Use your company newsletter or bulletin board to share a collective message of thanks
- Just say it in person – in a team meeting or out loud in the office!
- Give a small, but meaningful gift – something to brighten their desk or a little sweet treat
Organise a team fun day
Company fun days, or even just a couple of hours, provide the opportunity for a bit of rest and relaxation and team bonding. There are so many ideas for organising a bit of fun for your team and you don’t necessarily need a big budget.
Low budget ideas
- Have a dress down/ up day and encourage people to share their personality!
- Bring in some breakfast treats or afternoon snacks.
- Hold a sports or challenge day
- Head out of the office for a team walk (maybe combine with bring your dog to work day!
If you have some budget
- Arrange for someone to come in and deliver some wellbeing services such as massage or a yoga session
- Do a team building activity such as an escape room
- Take the team for lunch or have takeaway delivered
Whatever you are planning, give some consideration to the individuals in your team and try to be as inclusive as possible. For example, if you’re considering a physical activity, will everyone be able to take part?
Give them some time off
If workload and scheduling allows (remember it’s not much of a reward if the team struggle to make up for lost time afterwards!) surprise the team by closing the workplace at lunch time on a Friday or allow them to book a paid day off for personal wellbeing.
Introduce an employee recognition scheme
If you don’t already offer one, use the day to launch an on-going company-wide recognition scheme. Encourage employees to nominate their colleagues for recognition and regularly acknowledge high achievers, good team players and those that best demonstrate your company values.
Employee appreciation doesn’t have to be exclusive to this one day each year, there are many ways you can show your team how much you value them – from learning and development opportunities to well-thought through benefits packages. And if you really want to understand what makes your team tick and learn what motivates them and makes them happy – ask us about implementing an employee engagement survey and programme.
