5 Thoughtful Ways to Show Appreciation

Motivation is a tough nut to crack. Study after study has been done to try and get a grasp on what exactly motivates humans. Everyone it is different, but there are some universal motivators. Clarity produced an infographic on employee motivation, and the research from it shows that 64 percent of respondents stated that praise and commendation from a manager was their leading motivational factor. This information shows that while money is definitely a motivator, it is not at the top of the list.

Engaged and motivated employees do wonders for a business. If it is true that engaged employees are 26 percent more productive than unengaged employees, why then do a mere 25 percent of companies have anemployee engagement strategy?

We’ve found that recognition is the number one factor in motivation, but it goes deeper than that. Seventy-nine percent of those who quit their jobs state that lack of appreciation was their reason for leaving. Appreciation without recognition is useless. A manager can think that someone is doing a great job, but unless the employee knows it, they could be on their way out the door.

Managers need to learn to speak the language of appreciation. It’s cost effective, lowers turnover rates and gets employees engaged.

The following are known as the “5 Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace” from a book on workplace appreciation:

Tangible Gifts

These don’t have to be a costly box at a ball game. The key ingredient here, once again, isn’t money, it’s thoughtfulness. Everyone can sense ingenuousness. Thoughtful, small gifts go a long way in showing employees that they are appreciated. A book, their favorite coffee, or a lunch will all do.

Physical Touch

No need to call HR. This can simply mean doling out handshakes for a quick congratulations. A head nod during a quick pass by their office isn’t enough. And it might sound cheesy, but a high-five never hurt morale. The boundaries are pretty common sense. A slap on the back for a job well done is acceptable; it is obvious what’s not.

Read on for the other three ways…

Originally posted on Recruiter.com August 21, 2013

photo credit: greekadman via photopin cc

Maren Hogan

Maren Hogan is CEO of Red Branch and general Bad@$$

Maren Hogan is a seasoned marketer and community builder in the HR and Recruiting industry. Maren started Red Branch Media and, before she hired all the smiling faces you see below, she ran it on her own. In marketing for over 15 years, she has deep experience in strategic campaigns and a long-term, results-based operational approach.