Bob just spent weeks on a project, giving up several weekends and missing a couple of events that he had been looking forward to attending. When he tied the last knot and hand delivered the final reports, his boss merely nodded and started talking about the next big push. When Bob accepted a job offer a month later, his boss couldn’t figure out why Bob left and complained to a colleague about how hard it was to keep good help these days.
On the other hand, Dave worked just as hard, sacrificing a few events and weekends of his own for a special project, but his boss offered encouragement and sent in food for the team several times. When Dave submitted the final report, his boss thanked him for a job well done, handed him a gift card to local sporting goods store (he had heard Dave mention it on more than one occasion) and told him to take a three-day weekend. When Dave was contacted by a recruiter, he said he wasn’t interested.
Yes, we do have a talent shortage, the scales are presently tipped in the employees’ favor, and there’s a lot of talk about presenting attractive packages to engage and retain great staff. It’s all true and worth considering, but what is often overlooked in the war for talent is simple appreciation. In our frantic race to win, we take too much for granted and rarely pause to say thanks. But people everywhere long to be appreciated for who they are what they accomplish.
Companies who create a people-oriented culture where projects are an appreciated task have a much higher retention rate than those who are project-oriented and consider their people as mere tools. In fact, studies reveal that when management fails to recognize and appreciate what their people accomplish, there is a decrease in productivity, customer satisfaction, as well as company reviews, and ratings while employee conflict and absenteeism spike.
Saying thank you isn’t hard, but it does take an intentional effort and true sincerity. A smaller thank you delivered with true appreciation has a greater impact than a larger gift without personal appreciation. Here are some suggestions.
When a team of employees completes a project, plan a social event. Here’s the kicker – include their families – after all, they’ve been part of the sacrifice.
Bonuses in the paycheck are a well-deserved thanks, but can make the employee feel more used – like you’re trying to “buy them.” On the other hand, a bonus check delivered with a handwritten note expressing your appreciation in specific ways will create an unbeatable culture and ensure loyal staff.
Know your staff. Understanding who people are, is an act of appreciation in itself. If Susan is an introvert who loves a good book and hates the spotlight, thank her quietly and personally and include a Barnes and Noble gift card. On the other hand, if Ruby is the life of the party and loves attention, thank her in front of her colleagues.
There are a lot of tangible ways to say thanks – gift cards, bonus checks, extra paid time off, company events and parties, and food are a few – just don’t forget the words of appreciation. Stop in the break room and chat with the staff – tell them how much their efforts mean to the company. Honor outstanding work on the company Facebook page.
Consistent words of appreciation can play as great of a role as the occasional gift. When your staff knows that you recognize and appreciate their efforts, productivity, employee harmony, and loyalty increase. When you extend sincere appreciation to your employees, the ripple effect spurs respect for the company name and fosters success. Your employees are your most valuable asset. Taking the time to acknowledge their value and express your appreciation is more than just the right thing to do – it is personally rewarding and essential to business success. Start today.
Robbins Staffing says hats off to all our clients, employees, and candidates. Without you, we wouldn’t be the-the most trusted Central Virginia staffing source since 2006. Whether you need short-term work, a career, or you’re looking for a staffing partner that knows the local area, Robbins Staffing is your #1 source. With our reputation on the line every day, we constantly strive to treat every client, employee, and candidate fairly, with compassion and caring, setting expectations high and celebrating our successes. We are committed to getting it right! Contact us today.
