Are You Showing Your Team They Matter? The Power of Employee Appreciation
“A simple “thank you” changed how Michael saw his work forever.
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The Story That Changed Everything
Michael had been with the company for years. He was reliable, hardworking, and always met expectations. But over time, his enthusiasm for the job faded. He started feeling like just another employee—a replaceable worker rather than a valued team member. The passion that once drove him was slowly replaced by routine.
Then one afternoon, his manager, Greg, called him into his office. Expecting yet another task or critique, Michael was caught off guard when Greg simply said, "I just wanted to say thank you."
Greg handed Michael a handwritten note detailing specific ways his work had contributed to the team’s success. He didn’t just say “good job”—he highlighted moments where Michael had gone above and beyond. Then Greg did something unexpected: he told Michael to take the rest of the day off and spend it with his family.
That simple act of intentional employee appreciation changed everything. Michael left work that day feeling seen, valued, and motivated in a way he hadn’t felt in years. When he returned, he was more engaged, more committed, and more eager to contribute—not because he had to, but because he wanted to.
This is the power of appreciation. When people feel valued, they give their best.
Why Employee Appreciation is a Leadership Superpower
As business owners, we often focus on metrics, goals, and growth strategies. But at the heart of every successful business is something far more important—people.
As we celebrate National Employee Appreciation Day, remember our team isn’t just executing tasks but building your business alongside you. When employees feel appreciated, they show up differently. They work with passion. They go the extra mile. They stay committed even when challenges arise.
Yet, according to research, nearly 65% of employees say they don’t feel appreciated at work. That’s a staggering number of people who are showing up every day feeling unseen, unheard, and undervalued. And that’s a problem—not just for them but for your business.
How Employee Appreciation Boosts Your Bottom Line
Appreciation is more than a feel-good concept—it has real, measurable benefits for your business.
✅ Higher Retention—Employees who feel valued are more likely to stay, reducing turnover costs.
✅ Increased Productivity—People who feel appreciated put in more effort because they’re personally invested in success.
✅ Better Team Culture—A culture of appreciation leads to better collaboration, communication, and morale.
✅ Stronger Customer Experience—Happy employees lead to better customer interactions and stronger relationships.
And the best part? Showing appreciation doesn’t have to cost a thing.
Creative Ways to Show Employee Appreciation
If your idea of appreciation is an annual pizza party or a generic “good job” email, it’s time to rethink your strategy. True appreciation is intentional, personal, and consistent.
Here are practical ways to make employee appreciation part of your leadership style:
🎯 Make It Personal—A handwritten note, a personal email, or a one-on-one thank-you goes a long way.
⏳ Give the Gift of Time—Surprise a team member with an extra-long lunch, a half-day off, or flexible scheduling.
📣 Public Recognition—Shout out their achievements in meetings, on your website, or through company social media.
📚 Invest in Their Growth—Provide coaching, training, or learning opportunities that support their professional and personal development.
🎉 Celebrate Beyond Work—Recognize birthdays, personal milestones, or even small wins in their lives.
The Takeaway: Your Team Needs to Know They Matter
Your business wouldn’t run without the people behind it. Whether it’s employees, contractors, or strategic partners, appreciation is the fuel that keeps your team engaged and invested.
As a business coach and servant leader, I believe in 1 Thessalonians 5:11: "Therefore encourage one another and build each other up." That’s not just a personal value—it’s a leadership principle.
💡 Your challenge: Take five minutes today to intentionally appreciate someone on your team. Write a note, send a message, or say it in person. You might be surprised at the impact a simple “thank you” can have.
P.S. Inspirus has a great resource page for business owners on ways to show your appreciation for employees!
