Simple holiday employee appreciation ideas
As we approach the end of the year and celebrate the holidays, let’s not forget your organization’s most important asset. YOUR TEAM! I know the year hasn’t been the best for our industry, nor for most industries. But if your business is still standing (I’m still standing, yes… yes… yes – in my Elton John voice) better yet, thriving, don’t forget the people who got you here.
These people are the backbone of your company and never forget that. Make them feel valued and valued. Trust me, it’s the little things you do that matter. You don’t have to go all out. I want to share a few things with you that can help you show favor to your work family.
Let’s go back to old-fashioned handwriting. A handwritten Christmas card will warm everyone’s heart. Everything is so digital these days, but taking the time to write a handwritten card means you took the time and thought about it. Added bonus: throw in a gift certificate from a place they frequent. If they are a mother with children at home, give them a grocery store gift card. It will show them that you are thinking about their family too.
Time, now time is the one thing you can never get back. You can always get money and material possessions back, but time is precious. Why not give them paid leave? Give your employee a day to relax or spend time with family or friends. Let them make memories and you won’t have to worry about missing out on a day’s pay.
You’d be surprised how many people live paycheck to paycheck, sacrificing their children’s games or even their own health because they can’t afford to miss work. Showing your employees that you care means the world.
Real gifts! Remember when we were kids and the joy of waking up at the crack of dawn on Christmas morning and running downstairs to grab and unwrap that gift under the tree? The sound of the wrapping paper being thrown across the floor, and our parents looking at us with such joy!
You can also create that same feeling among your employees. Hand out real Christmas gifts and watch them unwrap them. I bet you’ll be grinning from ear to ear. The holidays are all about giving, and giving is a great feeling.
When I was a VP at an IMB (Independent Mortgage Bank), I was put in charge of the company/employee Christmas gift. I remember thinking about it and coming up with Garrett’s popcorn. Garrett’s popcorn is a very well known popcorn company from my hometown of Chicago. They all have different types of popcorn flavors and combinations and are shipped across the country in these cute and festive Christmas tins, along with a message.
It was a big hit with the entire company! Many of our employees took to social media to share their sweet Christmas treat, which was a bonus for the company’s brand and visibility. Something as simple as popcorn made many employees feel appreciated. Like I said before, it’s the little things that matter to most people.
I know that not every company will follow the above advice. However, I encourage you to put your employees first. Remember, they are your greatest asset, and usually your biggest cheerleader. We live in a digital world where everything is instant and fast. Slow down and take the time to honor those who have worked so hard for you all year. Get to know them, show them love and be a company that really cares about ‘company culture’
Wishing you peace, love and many blessings this holiday season.
Dalila Ramos is the founder of Love and Tacos Media.
This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of HousingWire’s editorial staff and its owners.
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