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Why You Should Treat Employee Appreciation Day like Valentine’s Day

Employee Appreciation Day rightfully takes its place among a slew of other Hallmark-endorsed holidays. You wouldn’t dismiss your significant other on Valentine’s Day so don’t forget about your employees on Employee Appreciation Day! Keep the following thoughts in your head and close to your heart not just on Employee Appreciation Day but permanently to achieve the results you need.

Work relationships are no different than personal relationships. If you feel like you’re currently with a man or woman who just isn’t on the same level as you, in terms of feelings and seriousness in the relationship, then you wouldn’t waste your time. The same theory applies in the workplace. As a manager you have to appreciate your employees in every way that you would in a relationship, or they may just walk away. Think about sending a simple award card for on-the-spot recognition or awarding them with a gift of choice. Retain your staff by showing them just how much you do care. Thank-yous and smiles are alike. You can never have enough of either.

If you make a mistake, own up to it. Trust in a relationship is the hardest thing to earn and the easiest thing to break. If you find yourself in a sticky situation, just be honest. In order for there to be true trust in any relationship there mustn’t be any underlying secrets. Transparency should be something you strive for as part of your corporate culture. Come clean about any dirty little deeds you’ve done and you will surely find that employees are more comfortable confiding in you.

Evaluate the relationship you have with yourself before judging others. The most challenging and significant relationship of all is the one you have with yourself. To be a good manager, you must be able to identify your strengths and weaknesses before you can be of assistance to your staff. Would your significant other describe you in the same way as your staff? Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine in the office, you’ll be surprised at how much it can lighten the mood and motivate employees.

Just as you make time for your friends, make time for your co-workers. You’re probably willing to put your friends' and family’s needs ahead of your own. Your social life is pivotal to your happiness just as your work environment is key to your company’s success. If you treat your co-workers and employees just as you would a friend then you’ll likely create a balanced relationship. Show how much you care and appreciate what other people do for you.

Recognition shouldn’t be a scarce commodity. Cards of appreciation, even eCards, range from sweet to sarcastic to fit the diverse personalities of an organization. But should the concept really be limited to one day? Isn’t it true of most holidays that, while celebrated for 24 hours, the heart and spirit behind the holiday ought to live well past midnight?

Appreciation can be anything from a thoughtful note to gourmet coffee; handwritten notes on special stationary to candy assortments. Use this holiday to recognize workers for their time and dedication. A healthy workplace, and relationship, gives thanks and praise where and when deserved (this means year-round!).

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