Is appreciation the new retention program?

How can you appreciate your staff in your daily work?

Employees who are happy at work will take on more responsibility and perform better. According to a recent study by Glassdoor, a website that reviews companies, 80% of all office workers are motivated to work harder when they feel appreciated. They also said they’d be more likely to stay longer at the company.

There is still a lot that can be improved on this point. The study results of the research center Gallup reveal that almost two thirds of the employees don´t feel appreciated. That’s why the Top Employer certifications are so important, as it awards companies with outstanding HR policies. This year Michael Page was recognised as one of the Top Employers in Switzerland. These are some of the things that top employers do well:

But what does that mean for me? Here are some tips!

Tend to their taste buds

Any good boss who wants to show the staff a little yearly appreciation could perhaps take the team to breakfast, lunch or even bring in a handful of snacks for them to enjoy throughout the day. A well fuelled team will definitely feel the appreciation as they’re biting on their fresh-from the-oven croissant and morning coffee.

Initiate an office party

If feeding your team isn’t your idea of appreciation, balloons might be a better alternative. And lots of them. Throwing an office party or after work get together can loosen up the team after a long day arched over their keyboard.

The power of time

You could even take the appreciation one step further and let them start an hour late the next day or even give them a half day. Throw it at them when they least expect it, for optimum appreciation. After all, who doesn’t love being told they can now go home and get directly into bed? Watch out, you’re almost the best boss ever.

Plan a team event

Perhaps a more relevant option would be to organise a sports day or a team building exercise. A little competition amongst people is never a bad thing. Consider a quiz if people don’t warm to your sports idea.

Rewards

Many companies, including ours, offer certain perks and benefits for working. Some companies might offer lunch tickets or a gym membership. But, after a while these rewards might go a little way in retaining an employee, they do differ from appreciation. Rewards that are apart of the job have less of an impact than sprinkling appreciation sparingly.

Having a good manager who knows when to praise accordingly can help keep a team motivated. And this is where the difference lies. The rewards and perks of your job might not necessarily motivate your team, but a lunch or after work drinks here and there will definitely go far in ensuring that your team stays happy, motivated and content.