Approximately 64% of working Americans leave their job because they feel underappreciated. Thanking employees for a job well done on a project is a great way to increase employee morale and motivation. Many people assume that employees are only motivated financially, but this simply is not the case. While it makes sense to financially compensate employees for continued successes, consistent encouragement from upper management is always welcome. Any employee that cares enough to put effort and quality into their work will also be motivated by acknowledgement of their efforts. Here are a few ways you can express gratitude for a job well done.
4 Ideas for Thanking Employees
- Send a thoughtful email
An email is the quickest way to show appreciation for a small task that has been completed, but make sure it’s thoughtful. For example, an employee completed a task prior to the due date – an email response could be, “I noticed you completed that project quickly. Thank you for prompt attention to that task. Your willingness to complete your work ahead of schedule does not go unnoticed. Great job!” A short, to the point email will show your appreciation.
Be mindful to express appreciation for larger projects in a more formal manner. Tone in email could be perceived negatively when it comes to major achievements. - Write a more formal thank you
A handwritten note gives a personal touch. It shows that you have put effort and thought behind the gratitude. Don’t forget, it’s the small things! - Include a small gift
If an employee has completed a large project or tackled a last-minute project, a small gift may be the way to go. Start with a formal thank you note or card and include a small token of gratitude such as a $5 – $10 gift card to the employee’s favorite local lunch spot. - Take them to lunch
Taking your employee to lunch can not only be fun, but it also shows your gratitude and gives opportunity for further discussion about company/individual goals and expectations. Taking an employee to lunch shows a deep appreciation for the work they do day in and day out.
Thanking Employees for a Job Well Done
Whether it’s a small token of gratitude or lunch, showing appreciation for your employee’s work will continually pay itself back in higher productivity and positive morale. As a manager, take the extra step to show gratitude – challenge yourself to email at least two employees a week to recognize their efforts.
Check out our HR blog series for additional blog posts on relevant topics for your business and employees.
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