Employee appreciation is shown through what actions?

When not appreciated, employees will feel unvalued and uncertain whether their efforts are really contributing to the growth of the company. On the contrary, appreciation and respect in the workplace helps employees understand that their work is meaningful, they will also work harder and better. In addition, recognition also creates an atmosphere of trust between employees and managers. Building a culture of appreciation creates a more positive work environment that fosters collaboration and innovation. When employees are appreciated, they will have less reason to leave, thereby helping to reduce the turnover rate.

Here are some very small but significant things that help your employees feel appreciated and valued at work. Let's consult and apply in this new year.

Say thank you often

A simple thank you after an employee completes a challenging task can do wonders. The thank you note may seem casual, but it shows that their work matters. So they will work harder.

Conversely, a lack of thanks can take a toll on employee morale, productivity, engagement, and happiness, and ultimately drive people away from your business. Lack of gratitude can also reduce the efficiency of the business. Therefore, always thank employees for a job well done and let them know how their efforts have added value to your business.

Build an atmosphere of trust

Trusting your employees is a way of showing appreciation and recognition to them. When you believe in your employees and allow them to take care of their own work, it helps them believe that their work is satisfactory and that the company believes in them. Conversely, when employees are micromanaged, they become frustrated, demoralized, and disloyal. Build trust with your employees by:

- Support when their job becomes difficult;

- Be transparent with them;

- Ask for their opinion before making a decision;

- Respect and implement their ideas where possible;

Listen to staff

Allowing employees to give feedback and listen to what they have to say about your business is another great way to make your subordinates feel valued. It shows that you care about their opinion and helps you understand what they want. This way, you can quickly solve the problem with the right solutions. When listening to employee feedback, do:

- Avoid being distracted;

- Do not interrupt;

- Ask relevant and appropriate questions;

- Consider their opinions before offering a solution.

Value employee personal time

Part of being human is having a life outside of work. When you don't respect an employee's personal time, you're saying you don't respect them. You may want to work weekends. You might as well not mind checking your email while on vacation, maybe even getting into a meeting. But your employees may not feel the same way. If you value their personal time, they will feel valued too.

Problem solving

If you're in constant contact with employees, they'll feel more comfortable coming to you for support when they're having a hard time. Now, listen to them, then work together to solve the problem. As a manager, you know this can take time at times, but make sure to keep them updated on what you're up to. As long as you care enough to take issues seriously, then resolve them, your employees will feel supported and happier as a result.

Give them new challenges

Performing daily tasks can become monotonous. Therefore, give employees a challenging new project, especially one that helps them develop a new skill. This way, you show that you trust them to take the job and get it done. Employees are always looking for new challenges, so give them opportunity, confidence and trust.

Modernize the workplace

Employees must have the tools they need to do their jobs. The latest technologies and digital workspaces are valued by employees. Simple things like good lighting, comfortable furniture, and fresh paint also help people see that you want to make their workspace a pleasant place.

Do fun activities

After hitting the hardest goal of the year or completing a project earlier than expected, do some fun activities to help your employees relax. Cheerfulness can be one of the best forms of appreciation. It helps your employees beat anxiety and stress while motivating them to do better. Awards ceremonies, office parties… are some fun activities you can use to make your employees feel appreciated and valued.

Being appreciated is directly related to employee engagement, productivity, morale, happiness and more. Hopefully some of the above suggestions will give your ideas on how to value employees to build a positive and happy workforce. Whatever idea you implement this New Year, remember the most important thing is to be sincere and respectful.