Business leaders can often undervalue the importance of staff recognition. However, taking the time to show your appreciation does more than keep your team happy - it also helps attract potential hires to your business and drives engagement and success.
SurveyMonkey and Bonusly found that 63% of employees who are recognized are "very unlikely" to look for a new job. Another survey by OGO found that 40% of Americans said they would put more energy into their work if recognized more often.
Consider these five tips to ensure that your employees are happy, engaged, and loyal to your business.
1. Encourage Peer-to-Peer Recognition
Encouraging your employees to recognize one another for a job well done is an effective strategy to create a more team-oriented environment, which will lead to better engagement and leave a good impression on your customers. According to a Forbes article, "A couple of simple ways to incorporate peer-to-peer recognition include using spot cards for employee-generated compliments, then posting these on a 'shout-out board,' or hanging posters with words of thanks that can be torn and given to peers to keep each other going."
For many companies that have transitioned to a hybrid or remote work environment, it's important to try to keep these activities going virtually. You can do this through any communication program your company uses or even post on social media. For example, if certain employees have shown exceptional work ethic, post a picture and summary of their achievements in a Facebook post. Then, invite their colleagues to leave comments.
2. Reflect on Individual Achievements
As the leader of your small business, it can be challenging to remember all of the achievements made by your team members. Try keeping a notebook where you jot down the name and situation every time someone on your staff succeeds. Then, on National Employee Appreciation Day or Administrative Professionals Day, you'll be able to easily recall many special moments, which your employees will greatly appreciate.
3. Host Team-Building Activities
Host an employee lunch or have an after-work celebration once a quarter (or any day, really). Consider holding the gathering at a nearby vendor and invite your team to enjoy a free meal where you can make a short speech and also acknowledge valuable employees. This is also a great way to boost morale and increase motivation.
If your team works virtually, consider inviting your employees to a companywide video call at lunch (or any other time) and highlighting employee achievements together.
4. Offer Small Gifts for Employees
If your budget allows, consider providing each of your staff with an employee appreciation gift. Something affordable and practical, such as a desk organizer or even a virtual gift card, will serve as a daily reminder of your appreciation and make sure they know their dedication and hard work will pay off during high-stress projects.
5. Set Aside Time to Say “Thank You”
Consider inviting individual team members — or standout employees if your staff is too big — to grab a coffee or simply pull them aside to say, “thank you.” If some of your team members are remote, hop on a quick video call to express your appreciation or invite them to a virtual happy hour. Although it’s not the most creative way to show employees gratitude, many managers fail to do even this. A simple thank you can go a long way toward showing your staff that you’ve noticed their efforts and recognize that the business couldn’t succeed without them. It just takes a few minutes of your time, but it can result in higher employee satisfaction and lower attrition rates.
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