You may remember the blog post from 2 weeks, “Why Really Awesome Team Members Quit.” Since that post my team and I have heard from many of you asking for examples and ideas for showing appreciation.
First, let’s start with a few really good reasons for why you should always show your team appreciation – other than just to keep them from quitting.
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Greater Motivation – when your team members understand they will get appreciation, they are more likely to go that extra mile for you – staying late to make sure the job in done, completing quality work prior to deadlines, etc.
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Increased Productivity – recognizing desired behavior increases the likelihood of such behavior being repeated.
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Higher Loyalty and Satisfaction Scores from Clients – as your team are happier to do a good job; they take better care of your clients.
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Overall Happier Team Members – as we all know, happy people make great team members and great team members cause business owners and managers to have less stress as they are happy to do their jobs without interference from you.
Now, here are a few ideas on how to show your appreciation.
- Time off or extra vacation days
- Special recognition in front of the team (Be sure to check on that team members Omnia assessment to make sure public recognition is suggested. Some people just plain out do not like being called out in front of a group even for good things.)
- Gift Cards – Local restaurants, stores or coffee shops
- Department/Office wide celebration – picnic/party for the entire department to acknowledge team effort
- Raises or Special Bonuses based on performance
- Food – who doesn’t love food? Give them their favorite!
- Personalized Gift
- Special Employee of the month parking spot and celebration board in an area that can be seen by everyone
- Provide opportunities for advancement when possible
A very important part of showing appreciation is that it should be completed year-round consistently, even just as a simple Thank You. Many people overlook the importance of saying Thank You but a truly heartfelt thank you can go a long way with your team.
Emailing or speaking face to face with your team, doesn’t cost anything but your time. Make sure to take a few minutes to tell each member of your team how much you appreciate them and thank them for the work they are doing for you.
Looking for a new book to read and want to learn more on appreciating your team?
Check out The One Minute Manager by Kenneth Blanchard and Spencer Johnson and
Whale Done! The Power of Positive Relationships also by Kenneth Blanchard.