Show your Employees Some Love
It is often said that employees are a company’s greatest asset. A recent study conducted by the University of Warwick found that when employees are happy, their productivity increases by 12%. With this month being Valentine’s Day, it’s a great time to show your employees some extra appreciation. Here are some suggestions of a few simple ways to do this…
Invest for the long-term
Employee wellbeing is becoming an increasingly important way to attract and retain staff. Spending time developing policies that allow greater work-life balance shows that you are serious about your employees’ wellbeing. For example, you might have a policy on flexible work hours that allows employees to set their own schedules (within reason) to help them manage their work and personal lives more effectively. This could also help with reducing stress and increasing job satisfaction.
Face time
The value of face-to-face time shouldn’t be underestimated. By arranging to spend some time with your team, such as at a planned event or a team lunch, you are showing that you care about them and enjoy their company. Treating employees to a meal or other activity they enjoy shows that you value their contributions and recognise their hard work.
The same goes for one-to-ones – by giving your own time up to meet with team members about their progress and development opportunities, you are demonstrating that your care about their career and job satisfaction.
Time out
There is no substitute for time and one way to show appreciation and help employees stay motivated and loyal is to give additional time off. Employers will often follow a scheme that awards length of service – giving an additional days’ holiday for certain milestones of time being reached. Having a holiday policy that gives employees their birthday off (or the closest working day) as an extra day’s annual leave is also popular amongst existing and prospective employees. Extra time off not only gives employees a chance to relax and recharge, but it also shows them that you value their time and that you understand the importance of taking ‘down time’ away from work.
Gifts and treats
A small gift or treat that is unexpected can be a great way to show your team that you appreciate their hard work. Food can often be the way to the heart, and cakes for the team or a takeaway for lunch are easy to arrange. In these times where people are struggling with household bills, a gift card or one-off bonus would likely be well-appreciated.
Valentine’s Day is a great time to show your employees some love. Whether it’s a small gift, an appreciation event, or a day off, your employees will appreciate the gesture. Investing in employee wellbeing not only boosts morale, but it also has the potential to increase productivity, which is good for business. So, this Valentine’s Day, show your employees some love and reap the rewards!
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