It’s a tale as old as time: the struggle of employees to feel appreciated by their employers. The topic has been explored in countless novels and films, including The Grapes of Wrath and On the Waterfront to 9 to 5 and Norma Rae. Though all are very different in the plot, there is a running theme: respect and appreciation.

All too often, employees feel undervalued and underappreciated. This is bad for any business and can cause high turnover rates, difficulty finding new hires, and low morale. However, the good news is, it doesn’t take much to make employees feel good about coming to work and doing a great job. Let’s explore tips for making employees feel appreciated in the office.

1. Check In Each Day

A quick and simple walk around the office daily (preferably in the morning) can make your employees feel like you value them. Say good morning, tell a joke, and ask how they and their family are, or even their dog! Anything that makes them feel like a human and not a number. A quick interaction can go a long way.

2. Invest in Quality Office Furniture

U.S. furniture store business saw a 2.5% increase in brick-and-mortar stores from 2022 to 2023. With so many ergonomic and higher-quality choices for office furniture available, it’s time to upgrade your office with the best for your employees. Get input from workers about what they’d like and invest in top-quality pieces that will last for years to come.

3. Remember Special Dates

No employee can resist a smile when you remember their birthday or the anniversary of the day they were hired. A handwritten card and a handshake is excellent. Add to that by getting them a small cake or personalized gift card. Flowers or plants are always great options, too, as 73% say they appreciate blooms!

4. Recognize Outstanding Work With Bonuses

Implement an employee bonus incentive for great work. It not only shows appreciation but also encourages productivity. These bonuses can be given on holidays, in the new year, or in quarterly increments for completing projects or reaching a team goal.

5. Implement a Rewards Program

Many companies use apps where employees earn points for good attendance, productivity, training new employees, and other tasks. They can use the points to choose a gift of their liking. The gifts often include items like gift cards to restaurants or spas, kitchenware, and more. With corporate gifting possessing a 37% higher retention rate, this is a worthy investment in your business!

6. Provide Food

You will rarely go wrong when showing employees your appreciation for food. Consider a weekly continental breakfast, a monthly catered lunch, or a free vending machine in the lounge. More prominent companies with cafeterias or dining halls may consider giving lunch vouchers for a free meal each day. Even small edible surprises like a fruit basket, bowl of candy, or granola bars will show you care.

7. Host Team Building Days

We’re not talking about stuffy corporate events where the goal is to hold a workshop or training, but actual fun events where employees and leaders can get together, let their hair down, meet families, and get to know one another. While the usual holiday party for employees and their partners is always a hit, consider thinking outside the box. Many companies hold family days that could center around a fun barbecue at a local park! Some companies even set up a street fair atmosphere in the parking lot with food trucks, games, prizes, and live entertainment.

Showing employees that they are valued and respected is excellent for everyone. Employee recognition has been shown to boost productivity, make for a strong workplace culture, and help retain workers. Having a reputation as a great employer will also make clients and customers more inclined to give you their business. Grab some thank you notes, call the caterer, engage daily, and spread good vibes. Your employees will love you for it!