10 Easy Ways to Show Employee Appreciation

Imagine your team being happy, productive and loyal to the core. They can’t wait to get to work in the morning, they’re passionate about what they do, and they’re ready to give their best every day.

If that seems like more of a dream than a reality, here's some good news: There's a simple, powerful way to build that kind of team culture—through employee appreciation. When you make a habit of showing your team they’re important, their spirits lift and the whole environment improves. 

Why? Because everyone thrives on genuine employee recognition for a job well done!

We get it though—with everything else you’re juggling, you may be low on staff appreciation ideas. But don't worry. We’ve handpicked 10 of the best tips to help you lead with gratitude and make employee appreciation a natural part of your team operations. But before we get to that list, here's why it's such a powerful driver of company culture.

The Importance of Employee Appreciation

As a business leader, you already know employee retention is a big deal, but keeping great people on your team is easier said than done. The top reasons for leaving usually aren't pay or benefits, but management, work environment, and stress. That goes to show that people want less strain and more support. They also want clear communication, empowerment and, as you might have already guessed, recognition.

When your team members feel valued, they’re more productive and more likely to stay. Basically, there’s no reason not to make employee appreciation part of your culture.

And if you’re short on ideas, we’ve got you covered. Check out these easy, practical ways to show recognition your team will love.

Employee Appreciation Ideas

1. When you see it, say it.

Catch your people doing great work or living out your company’s values—and let them know how much you appreciate it. Your words carry incredible weight, so sincere compliments and specific praise for character and attitude go a long way. 

2. Take a walk.

Step away from your desk and check in with your team. Schedule time to walk around if you need to. Recognition hits harder when it's spontaneous and personal.

3. Let your customers do the talking.

If a customer brags on your business or a team member, pass it on in your weekly staff meeting. Put real people and their stories behind the work you do to inspire your team and keep your mission front and center. 

4. Put it in writing.

One of the most powerful tools in your toolbox is a pen because one of the most timeless acts of kindness is a thank-you note. Be specific about what you appreciate and how it matters. 

5. Surprise them.

Recognition doesn’t have to be fancy. A simple surprise—like a handshake with an unexpected $50 bill or a note with a gift card tucked inside—can make someone’s day. And if you really want your appreciation to land, send a thank-you note to a team member’s spouse for supporting them during a busy season at work.

6. Say, “Happy birthday.”

Find out your team members’ birthdays and send them an email with your best wishes. Even better: Drop off a handwritten card and decorate their desk to build connection and community. Do the same for their work anniversaries!

7. Reserve a parking spot.

What’s the triple threat you want in your team members? Character, talent and loyalty. Honor milestone anniversaries, whether that’s five or 15 years on the job, with their very own parking spot.

8. Shout it out.

Make time in your daily or weekly stand-up meetings for team members to recognize each other for a job well done.

9. Think (and cheer) outside the box.

Encourage your team members to let you know what they’re up to so you can share in their joy. Did they win a civic award, earn a degree, finish a half-marathon, or reach some other life-changing goal? Celebrate their wins.

10. Get creative.

Staff appreciation doesn’t have to be expensive. Here are some employee recognition examples that are sweet and simple:

• Company T-shirts and swag
• Anniversary coins
• Coffee or restaurant gift cards
• Framed notes honoring the team member
• Free car washes from a mobile detailing service
• One-on-one lunches between you and a team member (compliments of you, of course)

Or celebrate together with:

• Staff outings, like bowling, mini golfing or going to an arcade
• Fun food trucks (think ice cream or specialty desserts)
• Special deliveries of cookies or other treats
• Local meet-and-greet opportunities with customers

3 Tips to Improve Employee Recognition

You really can’t go wrong when you show honest employee appreciation, but keep these three tips in mind to make sure your team members really know they matter.

1. Go public.

Recognition in front of others multiplies its power—especially when it honors a humble team favorite.

2. Keep it real.

Make your praise specific and sincere. Flattery fades fast, but honest appreciation sticks.

3. Share the love.

Behind every superstar is someone supporting them—don’t forget to recognize those behind-the-scenes heroes too.

Recognition . . . It's Just Good Leadership

When you do appreciation and recognition right, everyone wins. Take the time to recognize your team members and tell them how vital they are to your mission. This matters at every stage of business but it becomes especially important when you’re living out strong values, culture and communication at the Pathfinder and Trailblazer stages.