7 easy ways to show appreciation this summer
June 11, 2015 8:30 AM
With afternoon showers and sunny weekends, it must be summertime. Sadly, the days of elementary school are gone and those in the workforce notice little difference in the summertime months. However, employers have the opportunity to energize its workforce by providing some easy, inexpensive ways to boost morale and help employees have some summer fun, courtesy of Hallmark Business Connections.
Photo credit: Fotolia
Photo credit: Fotolia
Be flexible
With children out from school, many employees use the summer as a time to catch up on some needed R&R with family and friends. Recognize the hard work of your employees by offering some flexible work scheduling so staff can more easily plan that summer trip.
Photo credit: Fotolia
Photo credit: Fotolia
Go casual
Summertime is often a time to loosen up, especially when dealing with heat and humidity around most of the country. One way to appreciate staff is to loosen the dress code. Not necessarily a permanent change nor should it take effect if there are client meetings or other important events happening around the office. Forbes recommends trying the casual look for a day at a time, the point is to do something nice for employees and have a little fun at the same time, Hallmark says.
Photo credit: Fotolia
Photo credit: Fotolia
Randomly recognize
Instead of recognizing after the fact, Hallmark suggests selecting an individual (either deliberately or at random) and actively finding a reason for recognition. This creative approach encourages you to focus on the individuals strengths and then observe when he or she applies those strengths. Plus, it adds a little extra incentive for the employee to keep up the good work.
Photo credit: Fotolia
Photo credit: Fotolia
Cater a lunch
Nobody can say no to free food, and can also be a good way to reward employees for their hard work. As noted in an Open Forum blog, Lunch with colleagues is fun, breaks up the routine, and keeps employees in the office. Its an all-around win for anyone who likes to eat.
Photo credit: Fotolia
Photo credit: Fotolia
Stay cool
There will be some high-stress moments at any job, on any day which require composure and professionalism. Hallmark says a fun way to reward employees for keeping their cool especially during the summer months is to offer some treats like Popsicles or ice cream. After all, people tend to smile when there is sugar involved.
Photo credit: Fotolia
Photo credit: Fotolia
Team spirit
There are many cases pointing to a link between positive moods and spending time outside. Therefore, find a way to get your team outside. Ideas might include coordinating summer cookouts or potlucks, but whatever the case, Hallmark says just to make sure employees know theyre being rewarded for the excellent work.
Photo credit: Fotolia
Photo credit: Fotolia
Say thanks
An often overlooked simple, but powerful act, studies have shown being grateful can improve well-being and physical health, strengthen social relationships, produce positive emotional states, and help us cope with stressful times in our lives. Hallmark suggests going beyond just saying thanks, try giving out thank you cards to employees.
Photo credit: Fotolia
Photo credit: Fotolia
