Employee Appreciation Day: 5 Ways to Show Your Employees You Appreciate Them

Employee Appreciation Day, the first Friday in March, is the perfect time to show extra special appreciation to your employees, recognizing their hard work and accomplishments.

No matter what field you work in, 2020 and 2021 have almost certainly thrown some adversity your way. Employees in all industries were asked to work longer hours than usual. Some moved from working in an office to working from home, and others were forced to adopt multiple roles to get everything accomplished.

For the employees who stayed strong, went the extra mile, and trusted your decision-making, it’s time to show some genuine, heartfelt appreciation. And what better day for doing that than by acknowledging their efforts on Employee Appreciation Day?

If you are struggling to find the right way to say thanks, here are some ideas to get you started!

Deliver Employee Care Packages
If most of your employees moved to home offices, show your appreciation by sending goodies to their home address. Who doesn’t like receiving gifts? Choose decadent chocolates or healthy snacks, keeping in mind individual preferences when possible. Small office updates, like a plant for their home desk or even an allowance for desk upgrades, will last far longer – and they’ll remember your thoughtfulness.

Virtual Game Night and/or Happy Hour
From murder mysteries like Clue, to word challenges like Jeopardy and Scrabble, a virtual game night and/or Happy Hour can build work relationships unlike any other recreational activity. If you decide to go this route for Employee Appreciation Day, send a few suggestions to your team and let them choose by vote! You might even send a deliverable cocktail to each employee!

Spa Care Package
Last year might have been the most stressful year in your employees’ professional lives. You know what’s great for stress-relief? An at-home spa care package! Your team is valuable to you, so encourage them to decompress by encouraging self-care. If you don’t already know, soaking in a hot, steamy bath surrounded by scented candles and essential oils can do wonders!

Virtual Escape Room Challenge
If your employees enjoy team activities, this idea is just for you.

Working together to figure out the most effective ways to escape a room is a unique team building activity that can bring out a little competitive spirit. Even if your team spends most of its time at home, a virtual escape room challenge can create a sense of togetherness.

A Handwritten Thank You Note
A personalized note citing specific examples of how your employees were responsive, helpful, and open to new ideas throughout the challenging year will go a long way.

Clearly stating how you noticed their hard work in difficult circumstances, and that you respect and appreciate their effort, can be very motivating. Likewise, you might consider a public shout out through email or LinkedIn. Acknowledge your top performers and more will strive to become one!

Finally, this will help you build professional relationships with your employees.

Remember to say Thank You!

No matter what direction you take when showing your gratitude this Employee Appreciation Day, make sure they can see that you really mean it. Even if you decide to do something a bit out of your comfort zone, go out of your way to make it fun and relaxing for your employees. Above all else, take a few minutes to give each one an individual, meaningful Thank you.

Happy Employee Appreciation Day!