Think back to the last time someone genuinely thanked you. Maybe it was a friend who appreciated your help or a family member who noticed you’d gone the extra mile. Whatever it was, that moment stuck with you. Being recognized for our efforts, no matter how small, makes us feel valued and connected. It’s a simple truth: everyone wants to feel seen and appreciated.
The workplace is no different. In fact, new research by BetterUp shows that when employees feel like they belong, organizations see a 56% increase in performance, 50% lower turnover, and 75% fewer sick days. Why? Because recognized employees tend to feel more connected to their work, more satisfied, and more likely to stick around. But what does “valued” really look like there? Here’s the thing: it goes beyond an occasional thank you or a pat on the back.
Here are nine simple but impactful ways to show your team that you see and appreciate their efforts every day.
Appreciation or Recognition? There Is a Difference!
Before diving into the recognition initiatives, it’s important to distinguish between employee recognition and employee appreciation. While appreciation is all about expressing gratitude and fostering positive feelings, recognition highlights specific achievements or exceptional performance.
Both are essential for cultivating a culture of loyalty and engagement. But here’s the trick: understanding the difference and knowing how to implement both effectively can truly make a difference. Want to learn how to do this right? Watch this webinar.
Employee Recognition Initiatives to Boost Engagement and Loyalty
There are numerous ways to make your employees feel valued, whether individually, within teams, or across peer-to-peer interactions. Here are some ideas that you can champion:
- Real-Time Peer Recognition Platforms – We all know how important it is to feel appreciated in the moment. Platforms like Bonusly, Kudos, or even on a dedicated Slack channel, can provide employees with real-time appreciation that reinforces positive behaviors and builds a culture of recognition.
- Positive Feedback – Whether it’s verbal or written praise, offering regular, specific feedback, helps employees understand what they’re doing right and why it matters. Highlighting achievements and providing recognition on a consistent basis shows employees that their hard work is noticed and valued. In fact, according to Gallup, 80% of employees who say they have received meaningful feedback in the past week are more engaged.
- Small Messages – There’s something magical about receiving a handwritten note or a sticky note with a thoughtful “thank you” message on it. Simple acts like these can make a huge impact on employee morale and create personal connections.
- Meeting Announcements – Don’t wait for the end of the year to celebrate successes! Use your regular meetings to spotlight standout individuals or teams. Publicly sharing wins–big or small–boosts morale, enhances team cohesion, and reinforces that every effort counts. In fact, nearly 90% of employees have higher trust in a leader who recognizes their accomplishments, according to C. Tanner.
- Go Out for Lunch Together – After hitting a big milestone, why not take your team out for a celebratory lunch? A relaxed, casual meal together can not only strengthen relationships but is a simple yet effective way to say thank you.
- Rewards and Treats – Sometimes, a little something extra can go a long way. Whether it's branded swag like a new hoodie or something personal like a gift card to their favorite store, these rewards serve as tangible reminders that their efforts are valued and recognized by the organization.
- Host an Awards Evening – For a more formal approach to recognition, consider hosting an annual awards evening. This gives employees something to look forward to, while also making them feel appreciated in a structured and celebratory way. Click here to learn five ways you can use employee events to boost morale, and heighten engagement, and productivity.
- Candid Appreciation Events – Surprise your team with an impromptu celebration! Whether it’s a surprise trip out to lunch, an office treat, or even a food van visit to site, an unexpected gesture will add an element of fun.
- Create a Wall of Recognition – Set up a dedicated space, either in the office, staff room, or virtually, to showcase your team’s achievements. Attach pictures, messages, and accolades to visually show your celebration of hard work and dedication across the team.
By integrating some of these recognition initiatives, you’ll be on your way to driving higher engagement and an environment where employees feel consistently appreciated and motivated in no time. To dive a little deeper into the power of employee recognition, watch our webinar, Sharing the Love: The Power of Recognition at Work.