As you prepare to observe National Gratitude Month, you realize that good workers are sometimes hard to find. You want your workers to know that you appreciate what they do for your business day in and day out. You also want to inspire all your workers to invest in your company, so they will work harder. Another goal you have is to achieve and maintain high morale in your workplace. Do not worry about how much it will cost you. You do not need a large budget to show appreciation. You can be frugal and still make what you do meaningful for your employees. In the end, whatever you spend will be worth it to you.
Give Time Off
One easy way to show appreciation is by giving paid time off. You may not be able to give employees a whole day off with pay, but that would let your workers know you are thankful for what they do. An alternative is to allow them to leave one or two hours early, or come in one or two hours late. If your company operates during regular business hours, your employees may have personal business they need to tend to. This will make it easier for them. Your employees will in turn, appreciate your thoughtfulness in giving them this gift.
Let Them Recognize Each Other
Many times, the workers themselves know who is putting in the extra effort that makes your business successful. Not many business owners are on the floor, but your employees are. Set up a weekly or monthly recognition program where workers nominate each other as outstanding employees. You could have a drawing for the prize where you pay for the winner’s lunch or even assign them a parking spot.
Listen to Them
When you own the business, your focus is often “the bottom line.” Sometimes, you are so focused on doing business, you may not be seeing different ways to do it. Your employees have ideas because they are doing the work. Give them the opportunity to share their ideas. Then, act upon them when able. You can create a forum where employees give input into upcoming decisions you are considering. Another way to get ideas is to have a suggestion box. With this option, you need to make sure you read the suggestions and act on them. You need to let them know you have read them and considered them.
Make Them Family
Get to know your employees by name and learn something about them. Workers will be more committed to a job if they feel like they are a part of something bigger. Compared to them feeling as if they’re just another employee. You could also host a “chat and chew” lunch where fellowship is the focus rather than business. Of course, you pay for the meal. Another idea is to plan an event for everyone and include their families. You can also allow them to flex their hours if they ask to attend a function at their child’s school or their spouse’s job. Knowing that you value their family time will only build their commitment to you.
Give Little Gifts
Sometimes smaller means more. Rather than doing this for one month, stretch your recognition of National Gratitude Month throughout the year. Set up a week every quarter as Gratitude Week or a day each week, like Thankful Tuesday. Give small, useful gifts or sweet treats they can enjoy as they go about the workday. You could set up a free coffee and tea bar. Another idea in this category is to give a variety of small denomination gift cards. $5 off is still $5 you have saved them.
These 5 suggestions for observing National Gratitude Month are ideas that are easy to put into place. As you carry out your plans, you will see the benefits. If you follow through, you will see a rise in morale and quality work. You need to invest your time and some of your money to make this happen. Remember, your employees make your business what it is. The leadership starts with you. When workers are invested in their place of employment, they will be happier and work harder. Everyone wants to know someone sees the good things they are doing and appreciates their effort.