Two simple words can make a profound difference in the morale, atmosphere and ultimately, the productivity and profitability of your workplace. When you recognize the contributions of others, you help them to fully realize their potential and reinforce the kind of positive behavior that you, as a smart employer, are looking for. Communicate your belief in your people and watch them rise to meet your greatest expectations.
Those two words – in case you haven’t caught on just yet – are “thank you.” Add to them this insightful statement from business guru Tom Peters: “People don’t forget kindness.”
Make “Thank You” Part of Your Success Strategy
The best way to thank your employees is to do it consistently. Be direct, simple and sincere. And make it personal.
- It shouldn’t be a big production. But it should be natural and appropriate. Research has shown that one of the best tools you can use is a personalized note. Refer to an employee’s specific success story or accomplishment – and send it out in a timely fashion.
- Tailor the thanks to the person and the desired effect. For instance, you may want to treat an employee to lunch at a favorite restaurant or thank them publicly in a team meeting – as long as they’re comfortable with it and it’s meaningful to them.
- Let employees know how their contribution helps the company. Understanding the value of your work in the big picture, especially if you’re a new or junior employee, is a great learning opportunity to see how even small milestones move big things forward. It’s a powerful motivator.
- If it’s a group effort, make it a group thank you. Pizza and/or a sheet cake that says “Thank You XYZ Department” can be the centerpiece of a group luncheon that fosters camaraderie and collaboration. For more significant achievements, let everyone leave early on a Friday.
- Company logo items – tee shirts, caps, coffee mugs and the like – can work as well. But be cautious with more expensive gifts. They’re usually not necessary and may in fact give the wrong impression, namely, that you’re wasting money could be better appropriated elsewhere in the business.
It’s Self-Perpetuating
People thrive when they know their contributions have meaning. Letting your employees know that their work matters – to you, to their team and to the company – helps to keep them engaged. And it’s a self-perpetuating cycle: It’s good for you, too. The more positivity you spread, the more is out there to come back in your direction.
Need more ideas to motivate your staff and build your employer value proposition? Read our related posts or contact the recruitment and workforce development experts at Premium Staffing today.