Employee appreciation is a part of every day at QIC. From congratulatory emails, to a simple thank you- we recognize the significance of expressing appreciation – individually and with social recognition events.  Today, as I watched Jeff Edwards, VP of Marketing & Business Development, call in two long-time employees to thank them for their hard work and service, I noticed the smiles on their faces grow (shout out to Billie and Dionne for being wonderful co-workers)! Everyone likes a kind word of encouragement, a pat on the back, or a “job well done”.

Today (National Employee Appreciation Day) is the perfect day to take a moment to thank your employees. Need a few ideas? Let me help!

• Write a short letter or note to each employee letting them know that they are a valuable asset to the company. That their performance has meaning and provides value to the organization.
• Take an employee out to lunch.
• Make up some fun awards and hold an awards ceremony, like The Dundies (from the popular television show The Office –Most Company Spirited, The Always Has a Smile Employee, The Fastest Copy Maker, etc…)
• Ask employees for their opinion on an upcoming decision. Let them know they are important.
• Let Them Eat Cake- buy a cake or cupcakes for your dedicated team!
• Just say thank you, you never know how important it is to hear someone tell you that.

These are just a few quick ideas that you could do – today! With just a little planning you could easily put together events that center around employee appreciation.  One of my favorite memories from working at a hospital in my home town was the carnival that the hospital had each year for the employees and their families.

They grilled burgers and hotdogs, had inflatables for the kids, different games for the adults, face painting, bingo, and more (and with spring weather just around the corner – now is the perfect time to begin planning). It was so much fun and everyone had a great time. This was just one of the many things the administration did to show the employees their true appreciation for each and every one of them.

I think Steve Brunkhorst said it well when he stated “Feeling appreciated is one of the most important needs that people have. When you share with someone your appreciation and gratitude, they will not forget you. Appreciation will return to you many times.”

Contact us to find out more about building a culture of recognition with employee appreciation.