It’s not about the products and services your company makes or delivers; it’s the people that make all the difference. Your employees are the ones who sell your goods, talk to your customers and make things happen.

This post will talk about why you should appreciate your employees this Thanksgiving season and nine creative ways to do so.

The Research

Several studies have concluded that appreciated employees are productive employees. Here is the data:

• According to Harvard Business Review, the most engaged, loyal and positive employees felt their emotional, mental, and physical needs were being met at the office.
   
• Research from Florida International University cited the following benefits of showing recognition and rewarding employees:
  • More pride in their work
  • Feeling appreciated
  • Willing to go the extra mile
  • Heightened commitment to the organization
  • More open to constructive feedback
  • Support and promote a positive work environment
• 75% of employees stated they would work harder if their contributions were recognized, according to a study by Globoforce.
   
• According to FlexJobs:
  • 82% of professionals say they would be more loyal to an employer if they had more flexible working options while
  • 74% said flexible working options would allow them to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
• Companies with engaged workers have 6% higher net profits per Towers Watson.

The Acts of Appreciation

Showing an actual act of kindness doesn’t have to cost you or your company thousands of dollars. Here is a few creative ways that can make the difference:

1. Write a handwritten card of thanks to a fellow employee.
   If applicable, have several members of your team sign the card.
    
2. Write a recommendation for a fellow employee on LinkedIn.
    
3. Add $50 to an employee’s paycheck when they do something great or give them a $50 gift card to their favorite establishment.
    
4. Give to a charity they are passionate about.
    
5. Throw a Thanksgiving lunch.
   Bring in all the elements of a Thanksgiving dinner, right down to the turkey, stuffing, and pecan pie. Do this the Thursday before Thanksgiving and invite all employees (in office and virtual) to attend.
    
6. Put cookies, cupcakes, and candy in the breakroom during Thanksgiving week.
    
7. Offer time off.
   Give every employee the option of paid time off on the Wednesday before or the Monday after Thanksgiving.
    
8. Send a gift of flowers, food, or wine to the employees’ homes with a personalized note from your CEO.

Mulligan Management Group, LLC Appreciates All Our Customers

We at Mulligan Management Group want to wish you and your family a truly wonderful Thanksgiving holiday! Please know that we appreciate your business and all you have done to make us truly prosperous. Once again, thank you!