If you are a small business owner, your employees are crucial to the success of your business. In case you need a reminder, you and your business benefit from your employees in many ways, including these:
Ability to meet the needs of more customers.
Your time is limited. Having employees extends your ability to provide goods and services to more customers. While your employees are making sales, closing deals, and answering questions, you are free to focus on other customers or handle the many administrative and marketing tasks required for your business to operate smoothly and profitably. More customers mean more revenue for your business.
Ability to take time off.
A solopreneur typically earns money only when working. Even if she operates an online store that processes sales around the clock, she must still ensure orders are fulfilled, payments are processed, and inventory is managed. However, a business owner with well-trained employees can take time away, confident that customers’ needs are being met and revenue continues to be generated.
Added skills and knowledge.
Each employee brings unique skills and talents to your business. Many will have expertise that can enhance your operations or take over tasks you don’t enjoy. For example, an employee with a flair for decorating and creativity can elevate your store windows, merchandise displays, and website in ways you might not have imagined.
Ways to Show Gratitude to Your Employees
During the Thanksgiving season, small business owners should make a special effort to recognize and reward the contributions of their employees. Here are some meaningful ways to express your appreciation:
Written or verbal expression of appreciation.
Write personal thank-you messages to each employee, mentioning a specific attitude, behavior, or achievement you particularly value.
Flexible work schedules.
Acknowledge that the holiday season can be hectic. Reward employees with four to eight hours of additional paid time off in December so they can attend school events, shop for gifts, or simply rest.
Holiday bonuses.
While many businesses give bonuses at Christmas or year-end, consider providing them at Thanksgiving instead. It’s a tangible way to express gratitude and allows your employees to use the funds to make their holidays even brighter.
Gift cards.
Help relieve holiday stress by giving gift cards for experiences your employees will enjoy—such as a massage, a spa day, a nice dinner, or tickets to a movie or play. Tailor the gift to each person’s interests when possible.
Thoughtful gifts.
A personalized gift of an employee’s favorite snacks or beverages, paired with a note of appreciation, is always meaningful. A gift basket with tea or coffee, cookies, and seasonal treats makes a warm and thoughtful gesture.
Employee appreciation meal.
Host a catered lunch or breakfast before Thanksgiving to celebrate your team. Consider closing for a few hours and posting notice ahead of time on your website and doors. Use the meal to share specific ways each employee contributes to the success of your business—and encourage team members to express gratitude for one another as well.
As we head into the busy holiday season, take time to express appreciation to your employees in ways that are meaningful to them. Doing so reinforces that you value them—and inspires them to give their best during this important season.
Please share ways you intend to express appreciation to your employees.
“I thank my God every time I remember you.”
Philippians 1:3
Susan's Reflections 