Every year there is a designated day for employee appreciation. Here, it was last week. All over social media, there were posts, acknowledgements and nice gestures showing employee appreciation. While there are similar days for bosses, employee appreciation is an important topic we felt that we should discuss.
WHAT IS APPRECIATION?
Merriam-Webster dictionary defines appreciation as a feeling or expression of admiration, approval or gratitude. An employee can be appreciated by a manager, supervisor, or co-worker simply by saying ‘thank you’. Even better, a mere ‘nice job’ or ‘job well-done’ also goes a long way. Doing so when an employee least expects it can lead to a greater impact. Now, we are not saying that you should walk around giving everyone high-five’s, nor are we saying that everyone should get a pat on the back all of the time. Instead, we believe that a positive and encouraging atmosphere improves outcomes, increases employee satisfaction and increases productivity. Further, it can lead to higher rates of employee retention and decrease employee turnover.
SHOULDN’T IT BE EMPLOYEE APPRECIATION DAY EVERYDAY?
Well, that is the million dollar question isn’t it? I guess the answer will depend on who you ask, right? Or better yet, what they are trying to accomplish. Some leaders are inherently inspiring and understand the importance of both individual and team development. On the other hand, though, some leaders just think differently and do not see appreciation as a top priority. Those leaders that push, and are sometimes called ‘ruthless’, may differ in opinion on the appreciation aspect of team-work.
Regardless, giving positive feedback and showing appreciation will undoubtedly create a work environment that is both positive and uplifting. Additionally, when your company needs your team the most, it is the appreciated employees that are more than likely willing go the extra mile. On the other side of the coin, however, some believe that is just not the case. While it is likely true that no individual employee will care for the company as much as the founder(s). Some leaders will even echo the statement, “that is their job to do that”. Sure, it may be their ‘job’ to perform a specific task, but to do a task with enthusiasm will generally lead to better outcomes. Even the bottom-line leaders should understand that.
To conclude, we are here to say that if you are the leader who could say some more positive things, do that. Take that extra step. Say those extra words. Make your employees feel good, well, because it feels good to feel good. Don’t undercut or undervalue the people who do work for you. Instead, praise them, help them, educate them and train them. In fact, tell them thank-you or good job, because without them you won’t get where you are trying to go.
[ratings]
