Working with staff involves many responsibilities, not the least of which is keeping your employees motivated. Motivated employees give their top effort to their jobs, function to the best of their abilities, and make your business success. When motivation is lacking, on the other hand, productivity can drop significantly.
A primary way you can motivate your staff is by showing appreciation. To get you started, here are five suggestions for expressing appreciation to your employees:
1. Host an annual "staff appreciation" event.
Invite all staff members to attend free of charge with the option to invite one additional guest. Make it as formal or casual as you'd like. Hand out door prizes and pay tribute to those who have achieve milestones, either at work or home. Say a few words recognizing how the staff has empowered the business to succeed. Christmastime and summer barbecue weather present natural opportunities to host such an event.
2. Say "thanks" privately and publicly.
Whether speaking at a company event or engaging in casual conversation, regularly say "thanks" to your staff members for their devotion and performance at their jobs. As additional outlets, take advantage of social media to give recognition to your employees. Rather than letting them feel taken for granted, let them know they are truly valued.
3. Give the occasional day off with pay.
Especially if a staff member has recently completed an intensive projectÛor has experienced a stressful time personallyÛoffering a day or two off to recover would be a meaningful (and much appreciated) gesture.
4. Invest in professional training.
Help your employees perform better while letting them know you value their contributions. Pay to send them to training seminars and conferencesÛpreferably in resort areas where they can also enjoy some vacation timeÛand equip them with the tools they need to do their jobs right.
5. Send care packages to sick employees.
When a staff member is absent for a few days due to illness, arrange to have a home-cooked meal or a basket filled with an assortment of gifts delivered as a way of saying he or she has been missed. Better yet, drop it off yourself.
Showing appreciation does not have to break the bank, yet it can have long-lasting ramifications. Your staff morale will go up, employees will become motivated to perform at peak efficiency, and the staff turnover rate will drop significantly. Plan meaningful ways to express your appreciation to those who work with you, starting today.
Buy Gift Baskets to reward a co-worker, business professionals and special friends who make things happen for you!
