Many business owners use the words appreciation and recognition interchangeably and think of them as the same thing; however, there is a big difference between them. Leaders who want their teams and organisations to thrive need to understand the difference between them so that they can use them correctly.
Recognition involves giving positive feedback to your employees based on their performance, whereas appreciation is about acknowledging a person’s inherent value. While there’s some value to recognition in the workplace, studies suggest that showing appreciation is far more important. Not only can it help to improve productivity, but it can also improve retention, engagement and morale. So, how do you show your employees you appreciate them? Keep reading below to find out.
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Offer Bonuses or Pay Rises
One of the most direct ways to show employees you appreciate them is to offer them a bonus or a pay raise for their excellent work. Increasing their pay above the standard cost of living adjustments is a highly effective way to retain good employees and keep them productive and happy.
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Feed Them
Almost everyone enjoys eating food, and feeding your employees can be an excellent way to show appreciation. Whether it’s keeping the work fridge and cupboards full of tasty snacks and drinks for them to enjoy or giving them vouchers to spend at urban-tandoor.com, treating your employees to food can go a long way to boosting satisfaction.
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Offer Flexibility
Another great tip which can help show your employees that they are appreciated is to offer flexibility with their working hours. For example, you could allow them to work from home or let them come in later one morning if they’ve worked late the night before. This is a simple way to show your employees that you appreciate them.
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Give Employees Extra Time Off
When your employees have worked hard and achieved all of the goals you set, why not give them some extra time off to relax and unwind before the next project? Allowing them to take time off shows your employees that you are thankful for and appreciate everything they have done for the business.
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Use Social Media
Lots of people love public recognition. So, calling out your employee’s achievements on social media can be a brilliant way to show appreciation. If you’re a small business that doesn’t have the funds to spend on bonuses or pay raises, this tip might be perfect for you.
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Touch Base Often
While talking to your employees about their day-to-day life might seem like an unnecessary task and a drain on your productivity, these interactions are actually valuable. They help your employees to feel like they are heard and seen by you. This, in turn, can make them feel like they are appreciated.
If you’re a business owner wanting to show your employees that they are appreciated, you’ve come to the right place. The examples above are great ways to show your employees you are thankful for everything they do. Why not give some of them a try?
