Written by Max Loong

As we approach the end of 2020, why not take some time to appreciate your employees for putting in the tough work throughout this challenging year? A small gesture of appreciation to employees can have a big impact on morale, increase their motivation, and make them less likely to leave. Showing your gratitude does not mean that you need to have deep pockets, as the matter of fact the best ways you can show your thanks does not cost a cent (see point 4 below). A study reported that Singapore employees prefer a helpful manager who offers acts of service or assistance as a form of appreciation. They also like words of affirmation.

Giving credit when it’s due can be as easy as saying “thank you” at the moment whenever a good job was done. Here are some ways to let your employees know you’re grateful:

1. Praise them publicly

Create opportunities to let other people in your office know when an individual or a team has done great work. Team meetings would be a great place to share this kind of praise.

Recognising your teammates on social media can also give them the professional credibility that they need. LinkedIn in particular has recently launched LinkedIn Kudos, with an array of features to let you share your gratitude with followers. Don’t just say “thank you”, let them know why you’re thanking them for. Be specific and genuine on your praise instead of empty and flowery language.

2. Thank you notes

How would you feel if you were to open your mailbox and find a handwritten mail from a good friend? That’s the impact handwritten notes can give in a time where everyone is flooded by emails every day. Make your appreciation stand out in a digital age. Write them a handwritten, personalised thank you note. Be sure to add details specific to your situation and your personal flair to turn it into a meaningful thank you note.

3. Ensure Work-Life Balance

One of the best ways to retain staff who performs is to make sure they don’t get burnt out from their work. Check-in often with your employees, and periodically review the current operational processes to ensure that employees are not overwhelmed and are getting adequate rest from work. Taking the lead to support work-life harmony in the workplace sends a message to employees that you care about their well- being, which will make them feel appreciated for their work.

4. Learn your employee’s interests and help them grow

The best way to show gratitude for your employee’s efforts is to show reciprocity. We’re not talking about giving monetary benefits, but rather growth and opportunities. In fact, a local study on Behavioural Employee Engagement in Singapore shown that practices that are found to be highly effective in improving engagement were non-pay benefits and the provision of opportunities for career advancement.

If you want to let them feel appreciated, check in with your staff to see what they want in their careers, talk in terms of the other person’s interests. Create opportunities to let them grow and thrive, and they will go above and beyond their call of duty.

No matter what form of gratitude and appreciation is shown, the impact on the receiving party is always good. Go ahead and relay your gratitude to your employees with the tips above, they will love it.

To quote Dale Carnegie: “Be ‘hearty in your approbation and lavish in your praise,’ and people will cherish your words and treasure them and repeat them over a lifetime – repeat them years after you have forgotten them.”

Find out more about how our Reeracoen’s Recruitment Consultation Services can help you hire the best talents in the market.