In a world where people sometimes feel overworked and underappreciated, employee appreciation can serve as a reminder for employers and leaders that positive employee recognition is truly vital and meaningful in the workplace. Moreover, appreciation should be woven into the fabric of how teammates and their leaders relate to one another on an ongoing basis.
Appreciation Is a Virtuous Cycle
Appreciation builds on itself. When people receive appreciation, they are typically more open to showing appreciation for others. Generating a climate of appreciation often spreads beyond company walls. When employees feel valued and respected, they tend to show it in the workplace and to their clients, vendors, families and friends.
Meaningful Appreciation
A huge part of meaningful appreciation requires taking the time to get to know your team and who they are as individuals. No one wants to be a number. Employees tend to respond positively when they know that leadership cares. They appreciate leaders who ask questions, encourage healthy communication and share honestly.
At Catto & Catto, we strive to build appreciation and recognition into our company’s culture. For example, we established the Celebration Committee to plan company-wide activities, events and celebrations. Members of this committee have the opportunity to work with their peers across departments and work together as a team. They serve their fellow employees, taking on responsibilities beyond day-to-day tasks and flex their muscles on exciting, meaningful projects that we look forward to.
It doesn’t take a committee to show signs of appreciation to employees on a daily basis. Here are some simple ways to show appreciation:
- Ask questions to get to know your employees better.
- Start by asking employees how each of them prefers to be recognized. Some enjoy receiving personally written notes; others like to be publicly thanked for a job well done.
- Recognize employees for important milestones like work anniversaries and birthdays.
- Email employees with words of encouragement and positive feedback.
- Share positive feedback from clients and vendors with key employee stakeholders.
- Plan team and company-wide events and outings.
You won’t regret investing in people. When employees feel valued, they enjoy coming to work. If you enjoy where you work, and the people you’re working with, it stands to reason that you’re going to want to show up and contribute. This ultimately makes for a more engaged, productive environment and workforce, as well as happier clients.
About The Author
Barbara Bentley serves the employees of Catto & Catto as HR Director, responsible for creating and implementing talent and culture strategies in support of Catto & Catto’s Mission and Values. Barb has over twenty years of HR experience across several industries, has earned the SPHR and SHRM-SCP designations, completed her MBA and is currently pursuing a second Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership through Gonzaga University.