From Christmas to Festivus and everything in between, the majority of your employees are celebrating something this time of year. Why not celebrate your employees? Employee appreciation is so important yet sometimes overlooked. If you haven’t done so already, this article will provide you with some low cost celebration ideas.
Why is employee appreciation so important?
A study by Harris Interactive found that 53% of employees surveyed would stay at their company longer if their boss showed more appreciation. Also, 81% of these employees said that they are motivated to work harder when their boss shows appreciation for their work.
So if employee appreciation is so important, what better time to show it than now.
How can you show appreciation on a budget?
While we would all love to host an epic holiday party, it may not be in this year’s budget. This doesn’t mean you have to be a humbug. Check out this list of low cost celebration ideas.
In office ideas:
- Ugly Sweater Party- Have your employees wear an ugly sweater to the office. Your local party store will most likely have ribbons and décor for the occasion.
- Cookie Decorating- All you need is some pre-baked cookies and some frosting!
- Ornament decorating- Your local crafts store will have all you need.
- Lunch-Cater in or have a potluck.
- Awards and Recognition- Make up your own awards and pass out fun certificates (the sillier the better). You can even pass out gift cards as low as $5.
- Gift exchange- There are so many variations of gift exchanges. No matter what you choose, it is always a fun experience.
- A small gift from company-T-shirts, candy, gift cards, personalized pens…there are so many possibilities here.
Out of office ideas:
Lock the office early and take your employees out. This reduces costs of paying for guests and everything that goes along with hosting a true party.
- Laser Tag
- Escape Rooms
- Miniature golf (weather permitting)
- Bowling
- Lunch at a group friendly restaurant
- Local holiday event (shows, displays, etc.)
All you need to say is “THANK YOU”
At the end of the day, people just want to feel their efforts are appreciated. A simple thank you from managers and owners of the company will mean more to some people than you think. No matter what you choose to do during this time of year remember to say “Thank You”.
