Happy Employee Appreciation Day: Appreciation tips & quotes

Let’s face it. Many Americans are overworked, underpaid and over-stressed. Between the job(s), kids, house, extracurricular activities and that never ending to-do list, many feel overwhelmed and underappreciated! But today may put a little spring in your step, a little lift in your spirit – it’s Employee Appreciation Day, an annual holiday observed each year on the first Friday in March.

Launched in 1995 by Bob Nelson, owner of Workman Publishing, the annual event is celebrated on the first Friday in March. Although employees are compensated for their work, employees are an integral part of the business and organization. While employees honor and recognize their employers on Bosses Day, it only makes sense bosses set aside a special day of the year to recognize their hard-working employees, right?

While it’s important that everyone feels appreciated throughout the year, today serves as an important reminder to thank employees for their hard work and dedication that keeps your company running smoothly and efficiently. Just imagine where businesses would be without employees?

How to Celebrate Employee Appreciation Day

• Give your employees the afternoon off!

• A yearly bonus would sure be appreciated!

• Take everyone out to lunch or at the very least, order in.

• A certificate for a relaxing massage or pedi/manicure would sure be appreciated!

• Give them a certificate for a pizza and a movie.

• Be creative! Create original certificates for each of your employees highlighting their special contributions or skills.

• How well do you know the people who work for you? Make every employee a one-of-a-kind gift basket filled with special treats or funny gag gifts.

• Begin an Employee of the Month contest. “Winners” will receive a special parking spot, free lunch, special gift, recognition in the company newsletter, etc.

• Write a heartfelt, handwritten note to each worker.

• Send them a card or free electronic greeting.

Appreciation & Recognition Quotes

• “People may take a job for more money, but they often leave it for more recognition and appreciation.” - Bob Nelson

• “Recognition is the greatest motivator." - Gerard C. Eakedale

• “There are two things people want more than sex and money – recognition and praise.” - Mary Kay Ash.

• “There is more hunger for love and appreciation in this world than for bread." - Mother Teresa

• "Don't worry when you are not recognized, but strive to be worthy of recognition.“ - Abraham Lincoln

• “When someone comes along who genuinely thanks us, we will follow that person a very long way.” - Alan Loy McGinnis

• "I can accept failure, but, I can't accept not trying." - Michael Jordan

• “Feeling appreciated is one of the most important needs that people have. When you share with someone your appreciation and gratitude, they will not forget you. Appreciation will return to you many times.” - Steve Brunkhorst

• "A word of encouragement during a failure is worth more than an hour of praise after success." - Unknown

• “A pat on the back is only a few vertebrae removed from a kick in the pants, but is miles ahead in results.” - Ella Wheeler Wilcox

• "Attitudes are contagious. Do you want people around you to catch yours?" - Bob Moawad

• “No one who achieves success does so without acknowledging the help of others. The wise and confident acknowledge this help with gratitude.” - Unknown

Enjoy!

Sources:

Recognition Rewards Enterprises

Team Building Bonanza