Valentine’s Day is a time to show appreciation, so why not bring that thanks to the office?
We think of Valentine’s Day as a time to show our appreciation for those who matter most in our lives. Yet, how many of us think to include the co-workers and employees with whom we spend much of our waking time?
While a manager doesn’t necessarily need to give every member of their staff a “Be my valentine” card, it wouldn’t hurt to seize the opportunity to add a little gratitude to the office. A simple gesture can serve as a reminder to key team members that you appreciate their efforts and value their contribution to the team’s success.
Giving a personalized note to each of the people on whom you depend can give their morale a boost and make them feel more engaged as a member of the organization.
A survey conducted by the International Association of Administrative Professionals found that 30% of those surveyed said they’d be happy with a simple letter of appreciation from their manager. Yet only 7% have ever received such a letter.
Valentine’s Day is a great time to express your gratitude. Something as simple as a small box of chocolates can serve to let a particularly valuable team member know how much you appreciate the daily efforts he or she makes on behalf of your organization.
Don’t ruin Valentine’s Day for everyone by making someone uncomfortable.
Flowers are, of course, also a staple of Valentine’s Day gift-giving, but it is important to be mindful of the way another person might interpret your gestures. It is critical for all members of an organization’s staff – particularly those in positions of authority – to remain professional in their interactions with colleagues. Showing appreciation for an assistant, a helpful co-worker or an employee is one thing, but stepping “over the line,” could lead to more than discomfort.
One way to ensure that your employees and co-workers receive your appreciation in the manner in which it is intended is to ensure you know the types of “thank you’s” they value. And this means open communication throughout the year.
Showing your appreciation does not have to cost a lot of money either. Gold stars or balloons on their cubicle, edibles such as candy, cookies, ice cream or fresh fruit, or breakfast served by the CEO or business owner can go a long way to showing that you value the contributions of your staff.
