Employees are an organization’s most valuable asset. During the span of their careers, employees spend the majority of their time at work. So, to appreciate their efforts, the first Friday of March is celebrated as Employee Appreciation Day in the United States and Canada. In 2019, March 1 will be celebrated as the employee appreciation day.
History
National Employee Appreciation Day was first observed in the year 1995. It was founded by Dr. Bob Nelson (also known as the “Guru of Thank You”), the founder of Recognition Professional International, along with his publishing company, Workman Publishing.
How to observe the day
This day is celebrated by bosses to appreciate and recognize the efforts of their hard-working employees and is not a public holiday. All the government buildings, post offices, and businesses remain open on this day and operate normally. However, companies put in extra effort to celebrate this day and appreciate their stellar employees.
Here are a few tips that can help you celebrate this special day and show employees some appreciation:
· Pre-plan an office party for the employees
The day is an excellent opportunity to thank your employees for their efforts and hard work. So, a party for your employees during lunch or after-work hours will surprise your employees and make them feel appreciated and valued by the company.
· Go on a team building outing
Team building outings are a great opportunity to appreciate your employees and indulge in some lighter fun outside of work. Fun and exciting list of team building exercises can be created and selected by the employees to go for. Outdoor cooking, ice-skating, DJ spinning classes etc. can be added to the list to be chosen from. These outings will leave lasting memories to be cherished by your employees.
· Paid time off
A paid time-off on a Friday is a great way for employees to relax and unwind with their friends and families over a long weekend.
· Give them gifts
It is important to find out a unique way to celebrate appreciation day with your employees. A Starbucks gift card, subscription boxes or Amazon gift card etc. can also be planned. If there are budget restrictions, a simple “thank-you” goes a long way when appreciating employees.
Employee Appreciation Day is a great opportunity for bosses to recognize and appreciate the efforts of their employees. So, utilize this opportunity optimally to thank and motivate your employees.
