Ryann Redmond
You know what they say ... New Year, new opportunity to show your employees how much you appreciate them! Or something like that.
On the first Monday of March each year (March 7th this year!), Employee Appreciation Day acts as a time for us to pause and tell those we work with how much we value them – both for who they are as individuals and for the unique perspectives and skills they bring to the business. After all, we could all use a bit more gratitude in the workplace.
Demonstrating appreciation for each other doesn’t just make people feel good, it also has tangible business outcomes.
The HAAS School of Business Research found that people who are recognized are 23% more effective and productive, but people who are appreciated and valued for themselves are 43% more effective and perform better. And our recent research found that appreciation helps lower employee turnover, absenteeism and stress – key factors that can drain resources.
There are infinite ways you can show your employees you appreciation them, even if you don’t have a large budget. Let’s dive right in and review three celebration ideas for an engaging Employee Appreciation Day this year.
Create or refresh your recognition program
While appreciation is much more than just saying “thank you,” this is a great place to start.
Providing your workforce an opportunity to recognize their direct reports, peers or managers for their hard work has a huge impact on employee engagement and wellbeing. A recent study found that 33% of employees think that a manager who offers regular feedback and recognition enhances their wellbeing.
As you build out your recognition program, keep in mind that recognition should be as specific. Should out the action(s) you’re recognizing and the impact they had.
And keep the individual on the receiving end in mind. Some people are more private or attention-adverse than others. For these folks, you recognize them one-on-one rather than publicly. Or at least get their permission before you recognize them publicly.
Already have a recognition program in place? EAD is a great opportunity to refresh your eCards and create fun new recognition categories.
Launch a wellbeing program or challenge
Wellbeing is top of mind for your employees. We found that for 43% of employees a manager who cares about their wellbeing is more important than a 10% pay raise.
An easy place to start would be planning free meeting days so people can focus or virtual social hours so your remote employees can connect with others.
If you’re ready to take your wellbeing program to the next level, you can leverage a platform (like Wellbeing+) to create themed challenges – everything from step challenges to meditation and gratitude challenges. Not sure where to start we’ve got you covered with this wellbeing playbook.
And guess what ... you can even work wellbeing into your recognition program!
Provide a discounts program
Everyone loves a discount and finding ways to make their money go further. You can support your employees and show how much you appreciate them by offering them a discounts program that saves them money. You’ll want a discounts program that has an extensive offering for brands and retailers so that there is something for everyone, regardless of whether their searching for savings on groceries, new shows or their next trip.
Employee appreciation isn’t a one-day affair, though. Once you’ve settled your plans for March 7th, take some time to think about ways you can show appreciation all year long. Our 2025 People Experience Calendar is a great place to start. Happy planning!
Learn more about how Reward Gateway | Edenred can support your employee appreciation efforts and help you make your corner of the world a better place to work – by enriching connections, for good.
