'Tis the Season For...Showing Your Team Appreciation

Some people are just great gift-givers. Like they have a knack for knowing exactly what the recipient needs or will appreciate and somehow find the perfect gift.?

I don’t necessarily have that skill. I want to, and I try. But sometimes it ends up being me having several Safari browser tabs open on my phone for weeks. Then, at the last minute, I decide on a gift out of haste instead of thoughtfulness. Sound familiar?

But I’m trying to do better and have found that a little intentionality in showing my appreciation for others doesn’t have to be an extravagant or pricey thing to be meaningful. In fact, to be meaningful it just means taking into consideration what a person enjoys, values, and either needs or desires. Once you get those things down, it becomes a little easier to find a great gift.

As the year draws to a close, there's an invaluable opportunity for business owners and startup founders to express gratitude to their hardworking team members. By no means is it required, but it never hurts to let others know that they are seen, valued, and appreciated.

While the holiday season often inspires generosity, it's crucial to make these gestures meaningful and aligned with each individual's preferences. In the world of appreciation, one size definitely does not fit all!

Understand each person’s love language.

Much like in personal relationships,? people have diverse preferences when it comes to feeling valued and appreciated at work. Enter the concept of "love languages," a framework that extends far beyond romance. Your team members, too, have their own unique languages of appreciation. Some may thrive on verbal affirmations, while others might find value in quality time, tangible gifts, acts of service, or recognition through shared experiences.

It may take time and some intentionality to learn a person’s love language at work. Consider asking during new hire onboarding or in your next 1:1 which of the forms of showing appreciation are most meaningful to an individual. Take note and use that info the next time you want to say “I’m so glad you are part of the team!”

Tailor Gratitude to Individual Preferences

Recognizing and honoring these differences is a cornerstone of fostering genuine appreciation. Take the time to understand what resonates most with each team member. Engage in conversations, observe their responses to different forms of acknowledgment, and consider past instances where they seemed especially motivated or uplifted.

For those who cherish words of affirmation, a heartfelt handwritten note or a public acknowledgment during a team meeting could be incredibly meaningful. For others who value acts of service, perhaps organizing a team lunch or providing support for a project they find challenging could speak volumes. Tangible gifts might resonate with some, while others might treasure the gift of time—a flexible work schedule or the opportunity to pursue a passion project.

The Power of Personalization

One of the keys to effective appreciation is personalization. It's not just about the gift or gesture itself but about how well it reflects an understanding of the individual. Consider their hobbies, interests, or even small details like their favorite coffee blend or book genre. These personal touches elevate a gesture from being merely nice to being deeply meaningful and memorable.

Cultivate a Culture of Appreciation Throughout the Year

While the end of the year is a perfect moment for grand gestures of appreciation, integrating gratitude into the fabric of your company culture all year round is pivotal. Implement regular check-ins, anonymous feedback systems, or appreciation days where team members can publicly recognize and appreciate each other. Consistent acknowledgment fosters a sense of belonging and boosts morale consistently. Also, showing appreciation in ways that resonate with an individual helps them feel even more valued and “seen”.

And don’t forget…

Keep in mind that the IRS has specific guidelines about employer gift-giving to employees. As you plan your gestures, don’t forget to consult with your tax professional and/or refer to the IRS guidelines to ensure you're in compliance with your gift-giving to your employees and that you aren’t unknowingly creating tax-related issues for your business or your employees.

Why is nurturing meaningful appreciation important?

In the world of business, genuine appreciation isn't just a seasonal obligation; it's a year-round investment in your team's motivation, productivity, and overall wellbeing. You not only communicate your gratitude but also cultivate a culture where every team member feels seen, valued, and appreciated—a gift that truly keeps on giving (and is severely lacking on a genuine, human level in many organizations).

So, as 'tis the season for end-of-year gifts, let it also be the season for fostering a culture of meaningful appreciation that transcends beyond the holiday spirit and resonates throughout the year.

Remember, appreciating your team members is an investment in your company’s success and the happiness of those who contribute to it. So, as you plan your end-of-year gestures, keep the appreciation languages of your team in mind. A little thoughtfulness can go a long way in creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, and appreciated, and where they can thrive.