Three keys to appreciation (and why appreciation is key to your business)

Appreciation is a powerful thing. It can come in all shapes and sizes and has benefits that go far beyond the moment it happens. While business owners and employers have had to get creative (without social hours or in-person activities to depend on), the fundamental need to connect to each other has not changed. Neither have the keys to showing true employee appreciation or customer appreciation: it must be thoughtful, create value, and (most importantly) be personal.

Be Thoughtful

It’s still true that a simple “thank you” can go a long way. Whether it’s via email, in a meeting, privately or otherwise, the act of gratitude can empower teams, build momentum, and lift spirits. If you’re a business owner, one of your main responsibilities is to reinforce relationships with those who matter most to your business: employees and customers. Going beyond saying “thank you” is how you can make that appreciation more than a moment. Take that extra step to say and show how grateful you are for their contributions.

As an example, the focus this year for gift giving as one can imagine has been on home, health and wellness. Many companies benefit from having employees working from home and many employees enjoy it and wish to continue after the need to do so is over. Which means that that trend of home and wellness is not going away anytime soon. 

Create Value

Value does not have to mean monetary. Just because a gift has a high monetary value that does not necessarily translate directly to value. To give your gratitude the most mileage possible, value should mean more than that.

For example, your employees and customers can get value in a one-on-one meeting. Especially today, many people are feeling isolated and disconnected. So whether it’s for a regular check-in or a virtual lunch meeting, engage with your employees outside of emails and group chats to remind them they are still part of the team even if they are working remotely and connect with your customers whenever possible. That time, that effort builds value in a way money can’t buy. 

What else could you do that brings value to your relationships and makes those who support your business feel appreciated?

Make It Personal

As we said, appreciation can come in any shape. But it makes the most impact when the recipient is considered first when choosing how to show it. When you understand how a team member prefers to accept gratitude or what motivates your customer base, you make it personal. Do they love experiences? Are they an audience that loves the latest movies? Is there a local business that ties into their day-to-day?

If you're going to send a gift, make it personal to get the best results. This can be challenging on a large scale as one size does not fit all. Keep in mind that giving with intent is vital to employee and customer appreciation gifts. 

In addition to improving employee retention and customer loyalty, appreciation gifts and activities boost engagement, which in turn reduces turnover, errors, injuries, and other bad things that happen when people feed undervalued. So, make sure you’re sharing gratitude every chance you get. Second, remember to be thoughtful, add value and make it personal. You’re doing more than just sending an item, You are opening a line of communication with your employees or customers.