In its downloadable PowerPoint presentation, “Employee Recognition Training for Supervisors”, SHRM shares the goal of employee recognition:

“To show appreciation for an employee’s achievement and motivate employees to continue with good performance and loyalty to the company.

Successful employee recognition will help the organization retain key employees and keep employees happy along the way.”

Recognition can be public or private, and involve a monetary or non-monetary reward. Here are some best practice occasions the Society for Human Resource Management cites for recognition and employee gift-giving:

• Years of Service
• Safety
• Attendance
• Certifications or Degrees
• Customer Service
• Public Service
• Employee of the month, week, year
• Retirement
• Suggestion Program
• Performance

In addition to attracting and retaining key employees, research shows that appreciation and “thank-you” gifts:

• Motivate employees to perform at higher levels.
• Increase employee productivity.
• Can increase employee competitiveness.
• Can increase company revenues and profitability.
• Improve business quality and service.
• Improve safety.
• May lower stress.
• Reduce absenteeism and turnover costs.
• Foster employment longevity.
• Encourage employees to continue education and training.

To ensure your workplace gifts are successful, SHRM suggests you identify what’s meaningful to your employees and offer reward options to fit those needs.  Be sure to:

• Recognize all levels of employees.
• Make sure recognition is given consistently.
• Keep it simple.
• Keep it adaptable.
• Make it timely.

So what are you waiting for? If you haven’t developed a plan to recognize and reward employees for their hard work and contributions, there’s no better time than now. SHRM is a wealth of information on this topic if you would like to learn more. Your employees will thank you!

What employee gifts and recognition strategies work best in your workplace?

About gThankYou, LLC

Turkey Gift Certificates and Turkey Or Ham Gift Certificates by gThankYou! are two of America’s favorite employee gifts and can be redeemed for any Brand (Turkey or Turkey Or Ham), at virtually any Grocery Store in the U.S.

gThankYou, LLC provides company leaders with a variety of easy, meaningful and affordable ways to recognize and reward employees, holiday time or anytime.  gThankYou! Certificates of Gratitude and our free Enclosure Cards are personalizable including incorporating your company logo. And, nearly all orders ship same day.

gThankYou, LLC (www.gthankyou.com) is based in Madison, Wisconsin.  Contact:  Rick Kiley, Chief ThankYou! Officer, gThankYou, LLC at info@gthankyou.com or 888-484-1658.
Follow the Company Blog –  “Celebrating Work”.
Join the Conversation @gThankYou
Watch our gThankYou! YouTube Video – “Learn More About Us”.

“G” logo and “Certificates of Gratitude” are trademarks and “gThankYou” is a registered trademark of gThankYou, LLC.

On-the-Spot Employee Thank You Gifts

Like many businesses, managing and embracing diversity is becoming increasingly important as minority populations continue to grow in the U.S.  That’s one reason UC Berkeley’s Facilities Department wants to embrace diversity in it’s workforce. To help the department do so, its members developed an Employee Recognition Program that allows Supervisors and Managers to thank employees with on-the-spot Gift Certificate awards in varying amounts.

Supervisors are empowered to give instant recognition at the $25 level, and amounts above that level are available to give but require the Vice Chancellor’s approval. The department also acknowledges award recipients in its monthly newsletter.

Employees identified the need for a reward and recognition program, and confirmed they’d value Gift Certificates of gratitude.

Top Management supported implementing the program and provided funding—both of which UC Berkeley’s Human Resources Department emphasizes are essential for a successful employee giving program. Facilities services generates a quarterly report to measure program results and keep management apprised.

Tangible improvements

The program gives Supervisors an engagement tool to acknowledge exceptional work-related accomplishments on the spot. U.C. Berkley reports tangible improvements to the department as a result of adopting the employee giving program include:

• Improved communication and employee morale
• Increased employee motivation to improve performance
• More harmonious work environment and culture

The program meets the needs of a diverse workforce, since employees identified the need, developed the process and have ongoing input. In fact, Managers and Supervisors believe the giving program is so successful and is worth replicating because management listens to staff-identified needs, includes staff in the decision-making process, and provides opportunities to give feedback.

What do you believe are the keys to a successful workplace giving program? What results have you seen?

About gThankYou, LLC

Turkey Gift Certificates and Turkey Or Ham Gift Certificates by gThankYou! are two of America’s favorite employee gifts and can be redeemed for any Brand (Turkey or Turkey Or Ham), at virtually any Grocery Store in the U.S.

gThankYou, LLC provides company leaders with a variety of easy, meaningful and affordable ways to recognize and reward employees, holiday time or anytime.  gThankYou! Certificates of Gratitude and free Enclosure Cards are personalizable including incorporating your company logo, and ship same day.

gThankYou, LLC (www.gthankyou.com) is based in Madison, Wisconsin.  Contact:  Rick Kiley, Chief ThankYou! Officer, gThankYou, LLC at info@gthankyou.com or 888-484-1658.
Follow the Company Blog –  “Celebrating Work”.
Join the Conversation @gThankYou
Watch our gThankYou! YouTube Video – “Learn More About Us”.

“G” logo and “Certificates of Gratitude” are trademarks and “gThankYou” is a registered trademark of gThankYou, LLC.

The gift of a gThankYou! Turkey or Ham Gift Certificate at the holidays is an affordable, meaningful gift appreciated by everyone.  Savvy store managers conveniently distribute our Certificates directly to employees (with a handshake and a big “thank you for all your hard work”) or in an envelope with payroll.  All gThankYou! Certificates come with  free Enclosure Cards, customized with a personal message and logo.

gThankYou! Gift Certificates are redeemable for any Brand, and at virtually any Grocery store, nationwide.  Recipients love them because they  choose what’s best for their family, and shop when and where they want.

gThankYou has a free, custom on-line ordering system just for you – with your selection of gThankYou! products, your negotiated prices and your selection of  free customized Enclosure Cards.  Locations order directly on-line and arrange for payment with a P.O. or credit card.    We ship them directly.  Nearly all orders ship the same day unless you request differently.

It’s that easy!  Really.  That’s why customers tell us “they love gThankYou!”.

Now isn’t that easy?  If your company has a large decentralized workforce, let us know if our custom online order system, called “SLOOP”, is right for you.

About gThankYou, LLC

Turkey Gift Certificates and Turkey Or Ham Gift Certificates by gThankYou! are two of America’s favorite employee gifts and can be redeemed for any Brand (Turkey or Turkey Or Ham), at virtually any Grocery Store in the U.S.

gThankYou, LLC provides company leaders with a variety of easy, meaningful and affordable ways to recognize and reward employees, holiday time or anytime.  gThankYou! Certificates of Gratitude and free Enclosure Cards are personalizable including incorporating your company logo, and ship same day.

gThankYou, LLC (www.gthankyou.com) is based in Madison, Wisconsin.  Contact:  Rick Kiley, Chief ThankYou! Officer, gThankYou, LLC at info@gthankyou.com or 888-484-1658.
Follow the Company Blog –  “Celebrating Work”.
Join the Conversation @gThankYou
Watch our gThankYou! YouTube Video – “Learn More About Us”.

“G” logo and “Certificates of Gratitude” are trademarks and “gThankYou” is a registered trademark of gThankYou, LLC.

At gThankYou! we believe a handwritten “thank you” note goes a long way to making any workplace gift special.

Tory Johnson, workplace contributor for Good Morning America and CEO of WomenForHire.com, lists her top-four employee gift tips in Winning Workplace Gifts:

1. Cash, gift certificates and gift cards are always top the list of favorite gifts.  Now more than ever.
2. Avoid anything too personal. If you’d rather buy a gift over giving money, avoid overly personal gifts such as perfume, lingerie, liquor or religious items.
3. Make a donation in your recipient’s honor to the charity of your choice.  This is especially good if you need a non-cash idea or you don’t want the value of your gift revealed.
4. Remember, don’t re-gift, because you never know who will recognize that cute knick-knack you received last year.

Do it right!
As an article by Laura T. Coffey, contributing editor at NBC News’ Today page, “Office gift-giving: Pens good, body spray bad,” says:

“Do it right, and you can make your boss, coworkers, clients and assistants beam with a warm and happy glow. Do it wrong, and—hoo-boy. Pray for:

a) Mercy
b) Short memory spans

To be clear, gift-giving at work certainly isn’t mandatory. But if you’re going to do it, stuff these particular stockings with the greatest of care. Small, thoughtful tokens of appreciation are ideal, gift-giving experts say.”

Workplace gifts do not need to break the bank.  That’s why so many businesses choose gThankYou! Certificates of Gratitude for affordable yet meaningful gifts of food – such as a whole turkey or ham for the holidays.

Give it some thought
But it’s the thought that counts, right? That’s what Sue Vering, creative director at global ad agency Draftfcb, asks in a Chicago Tribune article.

The answer? Sherri Athay thinks it’s one tired cliché, Vering writes. Athay, with husband Larry, wrote Present Perfect: Unforgettable Gifts for Every Occasion as well as the upcoming books Present Perfect: A Guide to Global Gift Giving and Present Perfect: A Guide to Business Gift Giving.

“Every time I hear someone say ‘it’s the thought that counts’ as an excuse for just giving anything, I think to myself, `No. It’s clear you just didn’t give this any thought,’” Athay says in the article.

It’s true, you do have to think first before buying employee gifts, but some items are tried and true.

Have you started your Workplace Gift planning for the holiday season?  Let us know if you have found great ideas for your workplace you would like to share.

About gThankYou, LLC

Turkey Or Ham Gift Certificates by gThankYou! are one of America’s favorite employee gifts and can be redeemed for any Brand whole Turkey or half or whole Ham, at virtually any Grocery Store in the U.S.

gThankYou, LLC provides company leaders with a variety of easy, meaningful and affordable ways to recognize and reward employees, holiday time or anytime.  gThankYou! Certificates of Gratitude and free Enclosure Cards are personalizable including incorporating your company logo, and ship same day.

gThankYou, LLC (www.gthankyou.com) is based in Madison, Wisconsin.  Contact:  Rick Kiley, Chief ThankYou! Officer, gThankYou, LLC at info@gthankyou.com or 888-484-1658.
Follow the Company Blog –  “Celebrating Work”.
Watch our gThankYou! YouTube Video – “Learn More About Us”.

“G” logo and “Certificates of Gratitude” are trademarks and “gThankYou” is a registered trademark of gThankYou, LLC.

By providing truly exceptional service and caring to customers—and employees—Zingerman’s in Ann Arbor, Michigan has grown from a corner deli to the nationally acclaimed Zingerman’s Community of Businesses (ZCoB).

Started in 1982 by Paul Saginaw and Ari Weinzweig, who pined for a great Jewish style Deli in Ann Arbor, Michigan.  Today Zingerman’s Deli is the source of great food and great experiences for thousands of visitors every year. And, is a model of world class customer service.

Zingerman’s is committed to delivering the most flavorful, traditionally made foods, in an entertaining, educational and service-oriented setting.  Whether at one of their many food stores or via their catalog.

You have to be doing something right to get accolades like these:

“America’s Top Independent Retailer for 2011“
- Gourmet Retailer Magazine

“Probably the best food store (and catalog) in the U.S.”
- Jeffrey Steingarten on National Public Radio

“Best Overall. Best Service.”
- Zagat Gourmet Shopping Online

“The Coolest Small Company in America.”
- Inc. Magazine’s Bo Burlingham calls ZCoB 

Celebrity chef Mario Batali deems Zingerman’s “The center of my gastro-deli universe.”

Even “Oprah raves Zingerman sandwiches are an 11 on a scale of 1 to 5.”

How do they do it?

Zingerman’s has the right mission and guiding principles, among them, great service, a great place to work, and strong relationships. From the top down, every employee lives them.

One of its companies, ZingTrain, offers books, seminars, DVDs and other tools to help you learn to live its service philosophy, too.  How can you not love a company that offers customer service training classes called, “Creating a Vision of Greatness”, “The Art of Giving Great Service” or yes, “Fun, Flavorful Finance”?

Even the Artwork is fun!

Ari Weinzweig’s book, Zingerman’s Guide to Giving Great Service, shares “how-to” formulas for delivering the ultimate in customer service, Zingerman style.

It all boils down to this…
Treat your customer like royalty.  And treat each other as well as you treat your customer.

Zingerman’s Five Steps to Creating a Culture of Service:

1. Teach
2. Define
3. Live
4. Measure
5. Reward

And the Three Steps of Great Service:

1. Find out what the guest wants.
2. Get it for them:
   1. Accurately.
   2. Politely.
   3. Enthusiastically.
3. Go the extra mile!

Not to mention the Five Steps to Handling Complaints:

1. Acknowledge the complaint.
2. Sincerely apologize.
3. Make it right.
4. Thank them.
5. Document the complaint.

Zingerman’s Communicates with Fun and Enthusiasm!

To ensure employees live its mission, Zingerman’s provides what Carole Matthews of Inc. Magazine calls, “The World’s Best Employee Manual,” which enthusiastically communicates how employees can provide world-class customer service.

“For instance, the wastebusting pages include text, graphics and bullet points to emphasize ways to reduce waste. Employee testimonials, like the Xtra Mile Files, share ways employees have gone the extra mile for their customers.

From getting along with others, to a guide for great finance, to answering the phone, Zingerman’s clearly—and playfully—presents what’s most important in running the Zingerman’s Community of Businesses.”

It’s definitely food for thought.  Does your business treat customers like royalty?  What can you learn from Zingerman’s?

About gThankYou, LLC

Turkey Or Ham Gift Certificates by gThankYou! are one of America’s favorite employee gifts and can be redeemed for any Brand whole Turkey or half or whole Ham, at virtually any Grocery Store in the U.S.  

gThankYou, LLC provides company leaders with a variety of easy, meaningful and affordable ways to recognize and reward employees, holiday time or anytime.  gThankYou! Certificates of Gratitude and free Enclosure Cards are personalizable including incorporating your company logo, and ship same day.

gThankYou, LLC (www.gthankyou.com) is based in Madison, Wisconsin.  Contact:  Rick Kiley, Chief ThankYou! Officer, gThankYou, LLC at info@gthankyou.com or 888-484-1658.
Follow the Company Blog –  “Celebrating Work”.
Watch our gThankYou! YouTube Video – “Learn More About Us”.

“G” logo and “Certificates of Gratitude” are trademarks and “gThankYou” is a registered trademark of gThankYou, LLC.

Happy 4th of July!

Will your employees get paid time off for the 4^th of July? Should they? The wrong answer could lead to fireworks in your office. The right one could help you attract and retain the best employees.

Human Resources guru, Michael Haberman gets this question all the time: “Do I have to pay my employees for holidays?” Last July 5, in honor of Independence Day, he blogged about it at Omega hr Solutions, Inc.’s website in “Holiday Pay for the 4th of July”.

The answer to the question, he says is, “as often occurs in HR, ‘it depends.’” Here’s what Haberman says it depends on:

• In the private sector, under the U.S. Department of Labor’s Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), if employees are classified as non-exempt there’s no requirement to pay them for holiday hours they spend not working. You can pay them for holidays at your company’s discretion and as a matter of company policy and past practice.

• If your company pays employees for a holiday, it DOES NOT have to be counted as time worked in the calculation of overtime.

• In the private sector, if employees are classified as exempt, you must pay their entire salaries for weeks in which holidays occur, regardless of whether they work the holidays or not. If they don’t work the holidays you can’t dock their pay.

• Union contracts or status as a state employee will alter these requirements.

So, be sure you follow FLSA guidelines this 4^th of July. And consider your policies for offering other types of paid leave, such as vacation, sick and personal days. SHRM’s survey report, Examining Paid Leave in the Workplace, says:

“An attractive employer-sponsored benefits program makes it easier for organizations to retain and attract great employees. Leave programs are crucial to an employee’s overall benefits package.”

The report advocates combining leave policies into one personal time off, or PTO block, to make administration easier and reduce costs.

What’s your philosophy on leave pay, and how does it affect your employees’ morale?

Michael Haberman is known as “THE HR COMPLIANCE GUY” of Omega hr Solutions, Inc. He’s also an instructor at the University of Georgia’s School for Professional Education and Emory University’s School for Professional Education, teaching human resources management. You can follow Mike Haberman on Twitter (Mike Haberman@MikeHaberman).

About gThankYou, LLC

Turkey Or Ham Gift Certificates by gThankYou! are one of America’s favorite employee gifts and can be redeemed for any Brand whole Turkey or half or whole Ham, at virtually any Grocery Store in the U.S.  

gThankYou, LLC provides company leaders with a variety of easy, meaningful and affordable ways to recognize and reward employees, holiday time or anytime.  gThankYou! Certificates of Gratitude and free Enclosure Cards are personalizable including incorporating your company logo, and ship same day.

gThankYou, LLC (www.gthankyou.com) is based in Madison, Wisconsin.  Contact:  Rick Kiley, Chief ThankYou! Officer, gThankYou, LLC at info@gthankyou.com or 888-484-1658.
Follow the Company Blog –  “Celebrating Work”.
Watch our gThankYou! YouTube Video – “Learn More About Us”.

“G” logo and “Certificates of Gratitude” are trademarks and “gThankYou” is a registered trademark of gThankYou, LLC.

The Library of Congress, Wise Guide, “Honor Your Father” tells us, “in June of every year, we honor fathers.” While lots of Dads claim everyday is Father’s Day, it’s fair to say most of us don’t thank the Fathers in our families daily for all they do. It’s good to be reminded to pause and reflect on why fathers are so important in our lives, and to celebrate and thank them. Similarly, we are well served to do the same for the other valued members of our personal and professional lives. You may have employees or co-workers who are vital to your business’s success, but how often do you remember to thank them for all their contributions?

Many Fathers share that Father’s Day reminds them how lucky they are – to have healthy children, supportive families or to know their grand-children.  It inspires many Dads to strive to do better for those who count on them.  Similarly, we know from research that a genuine “thank you” to employees encourages deeper engagement and a desire to contribute.

The first official Mother’s Day  was celebrated in 1914, but a holiday honoring fathers didn’t become official until 1966, when President Lyndon Johnson declared the third Sunday in June as Father’s Day. President Richard Nixon made the proclamation permanent in 1972. But the holiday was celebrated unofficially long before this time.

A then 27-year old Sonora Dodd came up with the idea for Father’s Day. Her father raised her and her siblings after her mother died in childbirth. While listening to a church sermon on Mother’s Day, Sonora thought of all her father had done for her and her siblings. She thought fathers should have a day too. Her father’s birthday was in June, so Sonora encouraged area churches to honor fathers that month. Spokane, Washington celebrated the first Father’s Day in 1910.

So we hope you celebrated Dad last Sunday, and that you celebrate your employees as soon and as often as you can. And if you forgot to send Dad a card or gift, he’ll still appreciate it now.

Our sincere gratitude to all the Fathers who do so much for all of us.

About gThankYou, LLC

Turkey Or Ham Gift Certificates by gThankYou! are one of America’s favorite employee gifts and can be redeemed for any Brand whole Turkey or half or whole Ham, at virtually any Grocery Store in the U.S.  

gThankYou, LLC provides company leaders with a variety of easy, meaningful and affordable ways to recognize and reward employees, holiday time or anytime.  gThankYou! Certificates of Gratitude and free Enclosure Cards are personalizable including incorporating your company logo, and ship same day.

gThankYou, LLC (www.gthankyou.com) is based in Madison, Wisconsin.  Contact:  Rick Kiley, Chief ThankYou! Officer, gThankYou, LLC at info@gthankyou.com or 888-484-1658.
Follow the Company Blog –  “Celebrating Work”.
Watch our gThankYou! YouTube Video – “Learn More About Us”.

“G” logo and “Certificates of Gratitude” are trademarks and “gThankYou” is a registered trademark of gThankYou, LLC.

The theme for this year’s Administrative Professionals Day  is “Admins, the pulse of the office,” according to the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP), as the holiday marks its 60^th anniversary.

It’s one of the largest workplace observances outside of employee birthdays and major holidays, IAAP reports. The event is celebrated worldwide, bringing together millions of people for community events, educational seminars and individual corporate activities recognizing support staff.

Say it with Gift Certificates of Gratitude
Holiday Insights notes the most common ways to recognize your administrative professionals are:

• Cards, often with Gift Certificates
• Flowers
• Lunch
• Candy
• Gift baskets

Administrative Professionals:  The Heart and Pulse of the Office
These professionals certainly deserve your thanks. IAAP calls them “the steady center of efficiency … helping ensure jobs get done right, on time and under budget.”  And, usually with a smile and a bright disposition too.

International speaker and trainer Marja Lee Freeman, “The Employment Lady”, and founder of M.L. Freeman Consulting, asks  “So, what are YOU DOING for your staff this Administrative Professionals Week?” in her article, Administrative Professionals Week Celebration . “It’s time people realize the office administrator is the heart and pulse of a successful organization—for profit, nonprofit or any profit!” she enthuses.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports more than 4.1 million secretaries and administrative assistants work in the United States and 8.9 million people work in various administrative support roles.

Recognize Support Staff’s Contributions
Although it’s important to recognize employees throughout the year, Administrative Professionals Week provides a great opportunity to thank support staff for their contributions, advises OfficeTeam’s Robert Hosking, Executive Director of the world’s largest temporary staffing service for Administrative Professionals.

The staffing firm’s press release at PR Newswire, OfficeTeam Offers Recognition Tips For Administrative Professionals Day (April 25), says “Although the achievements of these individuals often occur behind the scenes, administrative professionals make a significant impact on their organizations every day.”

And Harvard Business Review enumerates admins’ contributions in The Case for Executive Assistants.  “At senior levels (of Management) the return on a skilled assistant can be substantial”, says author Melba J. Duncan.  And, “granting middle managers access to an assistant—or shared resources—can give a quick boost to productivity even at lean, well-run companies.”  Duncan adds:

“Effective assistants can make enormous contributions to productivity at all levels of the organization. They ensure meetings begin on time with prep material delivered in advance. They optimize travel schedules and enable remote decision making, keeping projects on track. And they filter the distractions that can turn a manager into a reactive type who spends all day answering email instead of a leader who proactively sets the organization’s agenda.”

Melba J. Duncan is president of search and consulting firm The Duncan Group and author of  “The New Executive Assistant: Advice for Succeeding in Your Career”.

At gThankYou.com, we’ll thank our support staff with gift certificates for ice cream.  How will you thank yours?  Let us know.

About gThankYou, LLC

Turkey Or Ham Gift Certificates by gThankYou! are one of America’s favorite employee gifts and can be redeemed for any Brand whole Turkey or half or whole Ham, at virtually any Grocery Store in the U.S.  

gThankYou, LLC provides company leaders with a variety of easy, meaningful and affordable ways to recognize and reward employees, holiday time or anytime.  gThankYou! Certificates of Gratitude and free Enclosure Cards are personalizable including incorporating your company logo, and ship same day.

gThankYou, LLC (www.gthankyou.com) is based in Madison, Wisconsin.  Contact:  Rick Kiley, Chief ThankYou! Officer, gThankYou, LLC at info@gthankyou.com or 888-484-1658.
Follow the Company Blog –  “Celebrating Work”.
Watch our gThankYou! YouTube Video – “Learn More About Us”.

“G” logo and “Certificates of Gratitude” are trademarks and “gThankYou” is a registered trademark of gThankYou, LLC.

gThankYou! Gift Certificates offer company leaders a convenient way to celebrate employees, holiday time or anytime.

gThankYou! Certificates of Gratitude come in a variety of meaningful yet affordable varieties including: Turkey or Ham Gift Certificates, Ham Gift Certificates, Turkey Gift Certificates, Grocery Gift Certificates, as well as, Other Popular Varieties   (such as Pie, Ice Cream, Pizza and Fruit & Vegetables).  Recipients choose any Brand and can shop at virtually any Grocery store nationwide.  And, nearly all orders ship same day.

New Springtime Enclosure Cards:

"Spring Flowers"

"Green Bow"

"Worldwide Thank You!"

"Colorful Kites"

"Sunflower"

"Springtime Tree"

"5 Easter Eggs"

gThankYou! Enclosure Cards are available for all seasons and variety of occasions such as Autumn and Thanksgiving,  Winter and Winter Holidays, and Thank You! Designs and More.

gThankYou! Gift Certificates are the ideal workplace gift and appreciated by all.  Share your gratitude today!

About gThankYou, LLC

Turkey Or Ham Gift Certificates by gThankYou! are one of America’s favorite employee gifts and can be redeemed for any Brand whole Turkey or half or whole Ham, at virtually any Grocery Store in the U.S.  

gThankYou, LLC provides company leaders with a variety of easy, meaningful and affordable ways to recognize and reward employees, holiday time or anytime.  gThankYou! Certificates of Gratitude and free Enclosure Cards are personalizable including incorporating your company logo, and ship same day.

gThankYou, LLC (www.gthankyou.com) is based in Madison, Wisconsin.  Contact:  Rick Kiley, Chief ThankYou! Officer, gThankYou, LLC at info@gthankyou.com or 888-484-1658.
Follow the Company Blog –  “Celebrating Work”.
Watch our gThankYou! YouTube Video – “Learn More About Us”.

“G” logo and “Certificates of Gratitude” are trademarks and “gThankYou” is a registered trademark of gThankYou, LLC.

###

The holiday’s Netherlands originator, recognition professional Hans Poortvliet says 50 nations celebrated World Compliment Day last year.  It’s not intended as a commercial holiday; it’s simply an opportunity to recognize and appreciate others.  And that’s something everyone needs.

“A sincere and personal compliment costs nothing, but the impact on the recipient is huge,” Poortvliet says. “Nothing stimulates more, gives more energy, makes people happier, and as far as business is concerned, increases productivity and commitment faster than sincere appreciation. So why not use it a little bit more?

As philosopher and psychologist William James once said, “The deepest principle in human nature is the craving to be appreciated.”


Your employees are the reason your company runs smoothly—they do their best for you every day. Take this opportunity to show your gratitude and appreciation by giving each of them a sincere compliment.  Here’s how…

Reason + Feeling + Result = Great Compliment

The three parts to a compliment that will reach employees’ hearts, not just their heads, and make them feel you really understand and care, according to HaLife.

1. The Reason – Pinpoint the reason you’re giving the compliment by describing the project and providing examples of the outstanding efforts that impressed you.  Employees need to understand why the compliment is warranted.
2. The Feeling – Define how you felt about the work that exceeded expectations—grateful, thrilled, elated, ecstatic, pleased, thankful—so you can connect on a more personal level.
3. The Result – Factually identify how employees’ above-and-beyond exertions helped the company. Do you have statistics that show how the employee saved time or money? It’s your chance to help employees understand how their actions directly help the business.

Together, these three elements form a sincere and meaningful compliment that shows your approval and admiration. Your employees will likely be motivated to continue to earn more heartfelt compliments through hard work.

Craft Great Compliments that Support your Workplace Values

Roy Saunderson with Incentive Magazine  article “Top 10 Ways to Give Compliments on the Job” offers an expansive look at what one should compliment in the workplace.  It’s not just about recognizing results according to Saunderson; make the effort to compliment workers exhibiting valuable workplace attributes such as loyalty, initiative, sensitivity, team-work too.

Delivery Counts!

Demand Media provides tips for successful delivery of compliments in Amie Martin’s Chron.com article,  “How to Compliment Good Employees”.   Marten reminds managers to say “thank you”, two of the most important and valuable words to communicate to employees, often.

If penning a note is more your style, WriteExpress provides compliment letter templates you can use to craft your great compliments.

For more ideas, or to go public with your compliments, sign up to follow World Compliment Day on Twitter  or Facebook.

What’s the best workplace compliment you have received?  What’s the best one you have given to someone else?

Have a happy World Compliment Day!

About gThankYou, LLC

Turkey Or Ham Gift Certificates by gThankYou! are one of America’s favorite employee gifts and can be redeemed for any Brand whole Turkey or half or whole Ham, at virtually any Grocery Store in the U.S.  

gThankYou, LLC provides company leaders with a variety of easy, meaningful and affordable ways to recognize and reward employees, holiday time or anytime.  gThankYou! Certificates of Gratitude and free Enclosure Cards are personalizable including incorporating your company logo, and ship same day.

gThankYou, LLC (www.gthankyou.com) is based in Madison, Wisconsin.  Contact:  Rick Kiley, Chief ThankYou! Officer, gThankYou, LLC at info@gthankyou.com or 888-484-1658.
Follow the Company Blog –  “Celebrating Work”.
Watch our gThankYou! YouTube Video – “Learn More About Us”.

“G” logo and “Certificates of Gratitude” are trademarks and “gThankYou” is a registered trademark of gThankYou, LLC.

Consider human resources expert Susan M. Heathfield’s article, “Make the Super Bowl a Workplace Win.”  It cites interesting statistics from an employee survey by career community Glassdoor, which asks: “Is the Super Bowl good for the workplace?”

The results:

• 20% of employees say employee morale is typically better in the office the day after the Super Bowl.
• 22% of employees notice, however, that the Monday following the Super Bowl is commonly a less productive day than usual.
  (Need some last-minute productivity boost suggestions?  Check out the blog Workplace Productivity.)
• 8% of employees plan to take the day off following the Super Bowl.
• 9% of employees plan to take the Monday off as a vacation day.
• 3% of surveyed employees admit that they plan to call in sick the day after the Super Bowl.

Some Companies Offer Perks on Super Bowl Monday
The survey asks employees if their companies offer perks for Super Bowl Monday:

• Several employees say they’re either allowed to work from home or use the Monday as a flex day.
• Another employee says their weekly Monday morning meeting gets bumped until later in the day on Super Monday.
• Other survey respondents say their employers buy breakfast for employees on the Monday after the game.

Should Super Bowl Monday be a Holiday?
Some even say Super Bowl Monday should be a national holiday and not just sports fanatics.  In her article, “Do We Need a National Holiday on the Day After the Super Bowl?”,  Lisa Johnson Mandell  argues it’s a lost day anyway.  She notes that in 2010, “1.5 million Americans didn’t show up for work the next day at all, and an estimated 4.4 million showed up late. Then there are all the people who do show up on time who are fuzzy, drowsy and blurry-eyed.”

What Can You Do?
For one, take advantage of the high morale employees have on Monday.  Chances are your employees are in great moods the day after the Super Bowl—or horrible ones, if their team lost—but nonetheless they’re engaged and talking about the game and how they spent Super Bowl Sunday with family and friends.  It’s something almost everyone in the workplace can relate to and chatter about.

You’ll make the whole day more productive if you allow employees an hour in the morning to gather and talk. Consider hosting a simple breakfast for everyone to share or make it a potluck event.  A simple gesture such as this not only provides a needed transition for employees to focus for the day, but also builds long-term morale and goodwill too.

Be sure to announce special plans in advance, so those thinking of taking the day off or calling in sick will have an incentive to attend.  If you restore normal productivity on Super Monday, it will be well worth the time, effort and money.

What do you think? Do you see diminished productivity on Super Monday? What kinds of perks might work well in your workplace?

About gThankYou, LLC

gThankYou! Turkey Gift Certificates are one of America’s favorite employee gifts and can be redeemed for any Brand whole Turkey, at virtually any Grocery Store in the U.S. 

gThankYou, LLC provides company leaders with a variety of easy, meaningful and affordable ways to recognize and reward employees, holiday time or anytime.  gThankYou! Certificates of Gratitude and free Enclosure Cards are personalizable including incorporating your company logo, and ship same day.

gThankYou, LLC (www.gthankyou.com) is based in Madison, Wisconsin.  Contact:  Rick Kiley, Chief ThankYou! Officer, gThankYou, LLC at info@gthankyou.com or 888-484-1658.
Follow the Company Blog –  “Celebrating Work”.
Watch our gThankYou! YouTube Video – “Learn More About Us”.

“G” logo and “Certificates of Gratitude” are trademarks and “gThankYou” is a registered trademark of gThankYou, LLC.

Recognize your employees’ achievements this holiday season with a gThankYou! Turkey Or Ham Gift Certificate.

Everyone likes to feel appreciated, especially during the holidays. And a thoughtful gift of food this time of year is especially appreciated by all.  Imagine your employees’ warm feelings when you hand them a gThankYou! Turkey Or Ham Gift Certificate, along with one of our cheery seasonal Enclosure Cards.

Joyful Snowman

Employees appreciate the convenience and practicality of your holiday gift—recipients can redeem their certificates for either a whole turkey or half or whole ham, at just about any store, anytime. You’ll be front and center in recipients’ thoughts as their gThankYou! gift of a ham or turkey enlivens their holiday tables.  And the gift will keep on giving as they enjoy delicious leftovers, courtesy of you.

It’s not too late to share your gratitude with employees this holiday season.  Give the perfect holiday gift: a gThankYou! Turkey Or Ham Certificate of Gratitude gift along with one of our free customizable Enclosure Cards with your personal message and company logo.

And during this season of gratitude, we at gThankYou! wish you, our readers, the happiest of holidays this year and always. Peace and joy to you and your families, and Happy New Year!

About gThankYou, LLC

gThankYou! Turkey Gift Certificates are one of America’s favorite employee gifts and can be redeemed for any Brand whole Turkey, at virtually any Grocery Store in the U.S. 

gThankYou, LLC provides company leaders with a variety of easy, meaningful and affordable ways to recognize and reward employees, holiday time or anytime.  gThankYou! Certificates of Gratitude and free Enclosure Cards are personalizable including incorporating your company logo, and ship same day.

gThankYou, LLC (www.gthankyou.com) is based in Madison, Wisconsin.  Contact:  Rick Kiley, Chief ThankYou! Officer, gThankYou, LLC at info@gthankyou.com or 888-484-1658.
Follow the Company Blog –  “Celebrating Work”.
Watch our gThankYou! YouTube Video – “Learn More About Us”.

“G” logo and “Certificates of Gratitude” are trademarks and “gThankYou” is a registered trademark of gThankYou, LLC.

The New York Times posted this interesting data in a fascinating article by John Tierney, “Findings: A Serving of Gratitude May Save the Day“.

“Cultivating an ‘attitude of gratitude’ links to better health, sounder sleep, less anxiety and depression, higher long-term satisfaction with life and kinder behavior toward others, including romantic partners. A new study shows that feeling grateful makes people less likely to turn aggressive when provoked.”

Show Gratitude During the Holidays
A Clinical Psychology Review study by Alex Wood et.al lays out the details if you are interested.  So if you missed the opportunity to show employees your appreciation at Thanksgiving, the upcoming Holiday season gives you a second chance.

Gratitude Lite
Not feeling it? The Times quotes the University of California, Davis’ Robert Emmons , author of Thanks! and other books on gratitude. Emmons recommends starting out with “gratitude lite.” He and colleague Michael E. McCullough of the University of Miami conducted experiments, asking people to keep a brief, weekly “gratitude journal” listing five things they felt thankful for, like a beautiful sunset or a friend’s kindness.

After two months, the journalers were more optimistic, felt happier, reported fewer physical problems and spent more time working out, than control group members . They also fell asleep more quickly at night, slept longer and woke up feeling more refreshed.  Wow!

Five Ways to Feel Grateful
The New York Times article includes five tips experts offer for getting in the spirit:

1. Do something nice for a family member:
   Do one small kindness for a relative at your holiday celebration – listen attentively to yawn-worthy recollections, say thank you for a thoughtful gesture, or express admiration for a talent.

2. Turn the other cheek:
   If you count your blessings, you’ll be less likely to retaliate if a coworker or family member delivers a typically snarky comment. Say something positive instead and awaken that person’s empathy—they’ll pass the gratitude along.

3. Share the wealth:
   When you show gratitude, people realize they mean a lot to you, perhaps more than they thought. It’s a great way to uplift yourself and others.

4. Pay a gratitude visit:
   Write a very specific 300-word letter to someone who has changed your life for the better. Deliver it in person and read it aloud. “You’ll be happier in one month,” guarantees University of Pennsylvania’s Martin Seligman in a New York Times quote from his book, Flourish.

5. Seek “deep gratitude”:
   The New York Times quotes Emmons:  “As a culture, we have lost a deep sense of gratefulness about the freedoms we enjoy, a lack of gratitude toward those who lost their lives in the fight for freedom, a lack of gratitude for all the material advantages we have. The focus of [the holidays] should be a reflection of how our lives have been made so much more comfortable by the sacrifices of those who have come before us.”

Recognize Your Employees
Got your gratitude on?  This holiday season, thank your employees for their diligence. Be specific about how their efforts have fostered your organization’s growth and success in 2011. We’ve said it before, but a holiday Turkey Or Ham Certificate of Gratitude from gThankYou says “We appreciate all you do for us”.  Pass along the gratitude – you and your recipient will both benefit.

Happy Holidays!

About gThankYou, LLC

gThankYou! Turkey Gift Certificates are one of America’s favorite employee gifts and can be redeemed for any Brand whole Turkey, at virtually any Grocery Store in the U.S. 

gThankYou, LLC provides company leaders with a variety of easy, meaningful and affordable ways to recognize and reward employees, holiday time or anytime.  gThankYou! Certificates of Gratitude and free Enclosure Cards are personalizable including incorporating your company logo, and ship same day.

gThankYou, LLC (www.gthankyou.com) is based in Madison, Wisconsin.  Contact:  Rick Kiley, Chief ThankYou! Officer, gThankYou, LLC at info@gthankyou.com or 888-484-1658.
Follow the Company Blog –  “Celebrating Work”.
Watch our gThankYou! YouTube Video – “Learn More About Us”.

“G” logo and “Certificates of Gratitude” are trademarks and “gThankYou” is a registered trademark of gThankYou, LLC.

1.  Deliver Your Gifts Personally
If your budget allows for a Thanksgiving gift, and you can, deliver your gift personally to employees, with a handshake, a smile and a thank you. After all, as Doug Conant , former Campbell’s Soup CEO and the architect of a successful turnaround there says, “You’re on display 24/7. It’s not the words on the wall; it’s how you show up in every interaction.”

In an interview on Rules for Leaders at ChiefExecutive.net, Conant urges CEOs to recognize the importance of every exchange with employees, no matter how small.  He’s so passionate about this topic, he co-wrote a book around this subject that you might enjoy, TouchPoints: Creating Powerful Leadership Connections in the Smallest of Moments.

2.  Send Them with a Personal Thank You Note
If a gift isn’t in the budget this year, or personal delivery isn’t practical, send a handwritten thank you note to each employee.  Making that connection early with employees, and always looking for opportunities to celebrate them, is a great way to strengthen your relationship.

A personal thank you means a lot to employees. Says Conant in his HBS blog “Secrets of Positive Feedback”, “believe it or not, I’ve sent roughly 30,000 handwritten notes to employees … over the last decade”.  While some react that thank you notes are a waste of time, Conant says in his experience they “build goodwill and boost productivity”.

Include a Quote
For a change, consider using an inspirational quote to express your thanks. Although you’ll probably want to echo William Shakespeare’s tone in the play Twelfth Night,

“I can no other answer make, but, thanks, and thanks,”

rather than former British Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli…

“I feel a very unusual sensation—if it is not indigestion,
  I think it must be gratitude.”

Sorry, we couldn’t resist—these quotes and more are available at The Quote Garden.  Another favorite resource is Bartlett’s Familiar Quotations.

Thank You Note Templates by Lynn Gaertner-Johnson
Not sure where to start, or looking for a different approach for your thank you note?  Lynn Gaertner-Johnston, founder of Syntax Training, offers these and more thank you note templates in her Business Writing blog:

“Employee “Thank You”:

Dear ______________ [name],

During this month of Thanksgiving, I have been reflecting on the things I am most grateful for. Primary among them is our talented group of employees.

Thank you for the work you do to make our organization great. You help us provide award-winning services to our clients. Without your commitment, creativity, and high standards, we would not be the thriving company we are. I am very grateful for your efforts.

I wish you a Thanksgiving filled with abundance and bright moments.

Warm wishes,
______________ [name of senior executive or manager]

Brief  “Thank You” to Employees:

Thank you for everything you do to make this a successful, terrific place to work. Have a wonderful, long weekend filled with good things!

Happy Thanksgiving!”

In addition to Lynn’s examples, you can also find sample employee thank you letters online at Thank You Notes & Cards.

3.  Show Your Thanks
If you prefer, show your thanks by dedicating an initiative desired by employees and hold a “thank you” party to roll out introduction.  Or, poll employees as to their top choice for “giving back” to your community and organize an all company (that means Management too) community service project.  A great way to put the “thanks” into Thanksgiving is rolling up your sleeves with employees to work together to help those in need.

Regardless of your style and how you do it, connecting with employees and taking the opportunity to thank them, when ever you can, pays dividends for everyone.

All the best for a safe and happy Thanksgiving!

Send Us Your Stories
How do you put the “thanks” into Thanksgiving at your workplace?

About gThankYou, LLC

gThankYou! Turkey Gift Certificates are one of America’s favorite employee gifts and can be redeemed for any Brand whole Turkey, at virtually any Grocery Store in the U.S. 

gThankYou, LLC provides company leaders with a variety of easy, meaningful and affordable ways to recognize and reward employees, holiday time or anytime.  gThankYou! Certificates of Gratitude and free Enclosure Cards are personalizable including incorporating your company logo, and ship same day.

gThankYou, LLC (www.gthankyou.com) is based in Madison, Wisconsin.  Contact:  Rick Kiley, Chief ThankYou! Officer, gThankYou, LLC at info@gthankyou.com or 888-484-1658.  Follow the company blog “Celebrating Work” at blog.gthankyou.com.

“G” logo and “Certificates of Gratitude” are trademarks and “gThankYou” is a registered trademark of gThankYou, LLC.

Gift Certificates are the Leading Thanksgiving Gift for Employees
“Gift certificates for food items are the Thanksgiving holiday gift of choice for employers, followed closely by the holiday turkey,” says a Bureau of National
Affairs (BNA) report,  “Workers to Enjoy Less Thanksgiving Holiday Paid Time Off in 2010″.   “For eight of the past 10 years, gift certificates for food items have been the leading Thanksgiving gift and 2010 was no exception.”

According to the BNA, while the percent of employers providing a Thanksgiving gift to employees is down from its high in 2004 of 23%, current gift giving levels are similar to other post-recession periods.  Budgets today are tighter for everyone.

Thanksgiving Gifts of Turkeys Reinforce an American Tradition
A New York Times article says some historians speculate that passing out turkeys to workers during the holidays began in 19th-century England with bosses who had read about, and did not want to be compared with, Ebenezer Scrooge.

In this country, Thanksgiving turkey-giving was a way to “introduce immigrants to an American tradition,” says Mitchell L. Moss, a professor of urban policy at New York University.  “It was a way to do holiday spirit for people who weren’t familiar with the holiday.” It’s still an affordable and meaningful way to thank employees and celebrate the gratitude of the Thanksgiving season.

Turkey Gift Certificates make Employees think of You as they Celebrate
A thoughtful gift of a Thanksgiving Turkey puts you as an employer, front and center as your employees celebrate this special holiday with family and friends. And that’s something to be grateful for.

It’s Not Too Late to Buy Your Employee Turkey Gift Certificates
Thanksgiving may be just a couple of weeks away, but there’s still plenty of time to share your seasonal holiday gratitude with employees. Simply order much-appreciated Turkey Gift Certificates from gThankYou!

More About Scrooge….On a related note, Harvard Business Review discusses “The Economic Legacy of Ebenezer Scrooge”  and Forbes names him No. 6 in the Forbes Fictional 15.

About gThankYou, LLC

gThankYou! Turkey Gift Certificates are one of America’s favorite employee gifts and can be redeemed for any Brand whole Turkey, at virtually any Grocery Store in the U.S. 

gThankYou, LLC provides company leaders with a variety of easy, meaningful and affordable ways to recognize and reward employees, holiday time or anytime.  gThankYou! Certificates of Gratitude and free Enclosure Cards are personalizable including incorporating your company logo, and ship same day.

gThankYou, LLC (www.gthankyou.com) is based in Madison, Wisconsin.  Contact:  Rick Kiley, Chief ThankYou! Officer, gThankYou, LLC at info@gthankyou.com or 888-484-1658.  Follow the company blog “Celebrating Work” at blog.gthankyou.com.

“G” logo and “Certificates of Gratitude” are trademarks and “gThankYou” is a registered trademark of gThankYou, LLC.

HR expert Susan Heathfield emphatically believes retaining top performing employees is key to the long-term health and success of your business.  “Managers readily agree that retaining your best employees ensures customer satisfaction, product sales, satisfied coworkers and reporting staff, effective succession planning and deeply imbedded organizational knowledge and learning,” she writes.  “If managers can cite these facts so well, why do they behave in ways that so frequently encourage great employees to quit their jobs?”

Maybe it’s because managers don’t really understand what’s important to employees says Susan Cullen, president of Quantum Learning Solutions, Inc., who cites several important research surveys showing:

the No. 1 thing employees say they want from their employers is….full appreciation for their work!

The first survey, conducted by the Labor Relations Institute of NY, was published in Foreman Fact in 1946, and has since been repeated with results replicated many times since then, most recently ending in 2001.  It shows the top three things managers believe employees want, contrasting with what employees actually say they want.

Top Three Things Managers Believe are Most Important to Employees

1. Good wages
2. Job security
3. Promotion and professional growth opportunities

While those are all in employees’ top ten list  (No. five, four and seven, respectively), they’re not the top three.

Top Three Things ACTUALLY Most Important to Employees

1. Appreciation for their work
2. Being in on things
3. Understanding of their personal problems

The discrepancy, writes Cullen, shows the value of intangible rewards: appreciation, involvement and understanding.   What Bob Nelson, author of 1001 Ways to Reward Employees  calls the the “secrets of successful employee recognition”.   Importantly, the three things most important to employees involve their relationships with their direct supervisors.

Cullen also notes research shows a manager’s ability to communicate with, coach and engage staff has a direct link to retaining top talent in the workplace.  Once again research shows us recognizing and appreciating employees’ contributions is of vital importance to employees’ workplace happiness and business success.

Do your managers understand employees’ need for recognition and appreciation?  What do you do to show employees your appreciation for their work?

About gThankYou, LLC

gThankYou! Turkey Gift Certificates are one of America’s favorite employee gifts and can be redeemed for any Brand whole Turkey, at virtually any Grocery Store in the U.S. 

gThankYou, LLC provides company leaders with a variety of easy, meaningful and affordable ways to recognize and reward employees, holiday time or anytime.  gThankYou! Certificates of Gratitude and free Enclosure Cards are personalizable including incorporating your company logo, and ship same day.

gThankYou, LLC (www.gthankyou.com) is based in Madison, Wisconsin.  Contact:  Rick Kiley, Chief ThankYou! Officer, gThankYou, LLC at info@gthankyou.com or 888-484-1658.  Follow the company blog “Celebrating Work” at blog.gthankyou.com.

“G” logo and “Certificates of Gratitude” are trademarks and “gThankYou” is a registered trademark of gThankYou, LLC.

Here are the top reasons to school your employees:

1.     They feel valued

As Beryl Companies CEO Paul Spiegelman explains in his Inc. com article Deliver Value to Your Employees—Your Most Important Stakeholders, “if you want employees to take a vested interest in the company’s future, you must take an interest in theirs—at work and at home.”  When employers care enough to help employees develop professionally and personally, the employees feel valued.  Valued employees are happier and more productive.

2.     An educated employee is a confident employee

Without proper training, employees can’t fully use their skills and abilities and may become frustrated. With mentoring and education they can confidently serve clients, complete high-quality work, and contribute creative ideas. That makes any employee happy.

3.    The work seems more meaningful

The more employees understand about how one workgroup interrelates with other departments, the more they understand their impact on the organization and the value of their work.

4.     It’s fun!

A creative instructor can incorporate games and team-building activities into educational sessions, making even the driest-seeming topic lively and engaging.  You can offer rewards to celebrate successes (ice cream, anyone?).  We spend a lot of time at work; employees want and need to have a little fun.

5.     Education assistance is a popular perk as it can be expensive

Offering tuition reimbursement helps employees prepare themselves for future opportunities, whether it’s a promotion in your organization or a career move.

After all, as business consultant Rick Kilton, President of RWK Enterprises, Inc.,  points out:

“Here’s a familiar question:  ‘What if I train them and they leave?’

There are two answers:

‘What if you don’t train them?  They will leave.’

Or worse:  ‘What if you don’t train them?  And they stay?’”

Education is the best investment you can make in your employees. And they’ll thank you for it.

About Us
gThankYou, LLC  (www.gthankyou.com) is based in Madison, WI and produces America’s favorite meaningful, affordable and convenient employee gifts.  gThankYou!® Certificates of Gratitude™ are one way savvy companies demonstrate commitment to valued employees and customers. The company is best known for its Turkey Gift Certificates, Ham Gift Certificates, Turkey or Ham Gift Certificates and Grocery Gift Cards.   Other Favorites include our Ice Cream and Pie Gift Certificates.

In her now famous Wall Street Journal essay, “Why Chinese Mothers are Superior,” Yale Professor Chua describes (somewhat tongue in cheek, some argue) how kids in China –  and Korea and India among others – are driven to do so well in school and outperform kids in the U.S., for example.

For these parents, the reward is a good result, notes Chua:

“Once a child starts to excel at something—whether it’s math, piano, pitching or ballet—he or she gets praise, admiration and satisfaction. This builds confidence and makes the once not-fun activity fun. This in turn makes it easier for the parent to get the child to work even more.”

Blogging for ZDNet, Eileen Yu, who believes Chua’s sentiment was somewhat misunderstood, concludes that this kind of “tough love” method of pushing results would probably not work in every workplace:

“…the primary objective of any workplace [should be] to encourage and help employees realize the fullest of their potential, even if it may sometimes mean pushing them to their limits. “

How a manager accomplishes that for each employee is the tricky part. Success can breed success. Getting to the initial win could mean creating an environment that fosters success and rewards achievement. A simple thanks has been proven to get results according to reports including a survey by the staffing firm Accountemps, which found frequent recognition of accomplishments as the top way to reward employees.

Chua’s essay has sparked an important discussion about how to best facilitate  success, which includes fun take-offs like this from Edie Larson posted on Awl titled, “Why Minnesota Mothers Are Doing Pretty Good.” The parenting style can be summed up in this statement by Larson:

“If a Minnesota child gets a B, well, good for them! Room for improvement.”

In my mind, regardless of whether you’re a room-for-improvement style manager or succes- drives-success manager, rewards make a difference. Don’t forget to say thanks, no matter your style.

As another year comes to a close, it’s fitting to look back and share the best information we’ve found in the past year plus, a best practices of corporate gifting of sorts.

1. How to engage employees? Just add dirt! 
2. Gaining worker buy in by offering an office recess.
3. Making Thanks easy by lowering the transaction cost.
4. Timing is everything, except when it comes to workplace giving.
5. What to give: It’s truly the thought that counts.
6. Creating awareness with recognition.
7. Health and happiness through giving.
8. Recognition helps gain competitive advantage.
9. Giving builds customer loyalty.
10. Gifting is the best recruitment and retention tool.

More innovative corporate leaders are recognizing the value of Thanks Equity. You probably won’t find it on any P&L, but it does mean a lot to an organization’s health. Please share with us your stories of how workplace gifting helps your company.

The heart of the message: “a gift lets you know you’re appreciated.”

And that’s really at the heart of why we’re here, to help company leaders appreciate employees, customers and friends. But it’s how we help that means the most to both employees and employers. Explains gThankYou President Rick Kiley of our popular Turkey Gift Certificates, the gift that launched it all and continues to be popular during the holidays, particularly around that season of gratitude, Thanksgiving:

“It’s so convenient for employees, and gives them flexibility and choice. They can redeem the certificate at their convenience and choose the turkey that suits them. It’s a very meaningful, highly visible gift that puts the employer front and center.”

That convenience and meaning allows gThankYou certificates convey appreciation in a way that builds relationships and engages employees.

It’s a rare treat for us to have such an “aw, shucks” moment. But having our work highlighted in this way gives us a glimpse of the appreciation that comes through recognition. Sort of a validation that what we’re doing really works. It certainly has given us a boost to work even harder to spread Thanks around.

Although the certificate (suitable for framing) held no monetary value, it was treasured by the recipient and often displayed for years in cubes and offices. Accolades like this have been proven to be the greatest workplace gift of all. And I would argue that it’s not so much what or when (see Parts I and II of this series), but how the gift is presented that is really key to a successful workplace gift program that will return rewards to your company.

Saying Thank You to employees with meaningful rewards is good. Doing it in a way that recognizes specific achievements in a forum that creates awareness is great. Even if it’s a simple gift, putting thought behind the presentation has been proven to motivate.

It a recent Workplace Wrangler blog the Seattle Post Intelligencier drew attention to author Daniel Pink’s recent speech at the TED conference. The talk, detailing the science of motivation, notes that “when it comes to motivation, there is a huge gap between what science knows and what companies do.” Pink wrote the acclaimed Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us. According to the PI:

Pink convincingly argues that once our basic need for financial stability is taken care of, the desire for intrinsic motivation kicks in. Intrinsic motivation is founded upon personal rewards (individual interest or love) rather than extrinsic motivation (money). In fact, many scientific studies have demonstrated that people actually become less motivated when money is tied to doing something we are already drawn to doing. It actually devalues it for us!

Pink advocates employers to adopt a “now-that” approach to rewards and gifts instead of the usual quid-pro-quo “if-then” rewards system to gain motivation.

A recent survey by PricewaterhouseCoopers and OfficeTeam reported in the Toronto-based Globe & Mail recently  noted that 33 percent of workers in North America believe their manager fails to recognize them.

The certificate and hearty handshake method worked because it was a gift that carried a lot of meaning behind it. The recipient was most often a surprise, and always well deserved.

What’s the best workplace gift you have received? What’s the best reward program you’ve been involved with at a company? Chime in.

To help you through the process of using your gThankYou certificate, I’ve created this handy primer designed to answer any questions. Since I, too, was the recent recipient of my first gThankYou Turkey Gift Certificate, I thought there no better way to help than to share my own experience

Told that my gThankYou Turkey Gift Certificate would cover $20 toward the purchase of any Turkey of my choice from any grocer, I went shopping. Here’s how it worked.

After settling on the exact Turkey I wanted – Kosher this year – I planned where to shop for the perfect size Turkey at a good price. I found the perfect bird at Trader Joe’s, a national specialty food retail chain that caters to the foodie crowd. The bird fit my criteria, and those spelled out on the certificate (it needed to cost at least $20).

Certificate in hand, I advanced toward the check-out. After I presented the certificate, my checker examined it and began reading the instructions. He was a first-timer too, having never seen a Certificate from gThankYou. A manager responded, and after he read the certificate instructions, completed my transaction.

After hardly the bat of an eye, I was done. It worked just like a coupon presented during the check out process. But this was better, because I was fulfilling a reward.

A few tips:

1. Pay attention to the specifics. Details on your certificate will tell you what the gift covers: Turkey, Ham or Groceries and for how much.
2. Certificates will have a good-through date. Use the certificate by this day to ensure you receive the full benefit of your gift.
3. Expect to wait a minute or two for verification from a store manager. Shopping during a slower time of day on a slower store traffic day will minimize your wait.
4. If you run into stores with questions, there’s a toll-free number on the certificate that managers or clerks can call on the spot.
5. Rest assured that the certificates are usable for any specified item at any store, even if they’ve never (as was my experience) processed a gThankYou certificate. It’s the real deal.

It was truly an unexpected thrill to receive a gThankYou Gift Certificate. I felt proud using it, and enjoyed serving the Turkey I purchased with it, which this year had more of a story. Share your experience getting and using gThankYou certificates, and serving the resulting meals.

Peter Warr and Guy Capperto’s new book “The Joy of Work?” is among the work being presented on this hot topic. We spend one quarter of our lives at work, so it’s important to make the best of it, says Warr, emeritus professor a the UK-based Institute of Work Psychology. It’s important, Warr explains in a New York Times article, to focus on job satisfaction or finding meaning in your work, describing nine necessary elements of happiness in work and life. These include: having some sense of empowerment, using and expanding your skills.

There’s more:

• Consultant and author Alexander Kjerulf (self-dubbed Chief Happiness Officer) offers 10 reasons happiness at work is the top productivity booster. Among the benefits of workplace happiness Kjerulf cites: less complaining, more energy, higher optimism, increased motivation and fewer sick days.

• Performance Coach Arvind Devalia chimes in with his 12 steps to workplace happiness. He cites a  UK survey that found that two out of three people are dissatisfied with thier jobs and encourages workers to “See your work as a game. Life is meant to be fun and if you are going to spend a third of it at work, you might as well enjoy the game.”

• Finally, author Gretchen Rubin of the Happiness Project shares 16 practical tips for feeling happier at work.

This offers more proof that employees, and companies, gain from thankfulness and appreciation.

Rick Kiley is President of gThankYou, LLC, based in Madison, WI.  gThankYou® Certificates of Gratitude™ are one way  savvy companies demonstrate commitment to valued employees. The company is best known for its Turkey Gift Certificates, Ham Gift Certificates, and Grocery Gift Cards.

“It has been proven that breaks are essential for satisfaction. But what does this mean to an employer? Well according to Rich DiGirolamo, Founder of Recess At Work Day, it’s simple……..Breaks lead to satisfaction; and satisfaction easily transfers to increase morale, reduced employee stress, more engaged and healthier employees; ultimately having a positive impact on productivity, absenteeism and profits.

Now in its 6th year; Recess At Work Day is the perfect complement to any Health and Wellness or Employee Engagement Initiative.”

This initiative hits a couple of HR goals, covering both praise and motivation as well as the continued movement toward corporate wellness programs and team building.

How can a game of Dodgeball provide  engagement? Consider this from Dale Sweetnam, an Army public affairs specialist who worked at Google’s office in Washington, D.C as part of a training program. While there, Google put on a “Recess at Work” day that included “square pizzas, chicken nuggets, juice boxes, four square and dodgeball.”

“I can’t remember ever having that much fun at work. The whole office got into it.  A computer and speakers were set up on the side of the room and a projector  displayed YouTube Michael Jackson videos while we pelted each other with         dodgeballs.  The event was a huge success. I really felt like it was recess. I was still attending recesses in grade school when Michael Jackson came out with “Bad” and it had probably been that long since I’d last played dodgeball. It was a             blast.  The event led straight into the weekend. As far as I’m concerned, weekends don’t start out much better than that.”

There seems to be a mini movement toward this idea of corporate recess as a reward. There *are* lots of creative ways to say “Thanks” and engage employees.

Stay tuned!

The Fast Company article predates the hoopla created when Hyatt Hotels created its customer thanks program this year. Heath & Heath push (hard) for the idea of bringing active thankfulness a step further.

“Suppose there were some way to lower the transaction costs of a thank-you so much that praise became effortless?”

They continue, “Think of those obnoxious engaged couples who skip around Macy’s with UPC scanners, zapping waffle irons and cutlery for their registry. What if there were some ways to zap the cup holder in your car, or the quesadilla on your plate, and instantly deliver a thank-you to the people who count?”

Aren’t there a zillion times you’ve walked out of a meeting with colleagues, or suppliers, or customers, when someone really, really lightened your load, and you want to show your gratitude?  Give them a *huge* “Thank You!”?

Guess what? There are companies that have it figured out.

These companies make it easy for customers to praise their employees.  Doesn’t that makes sense?  If customers show their gratitude for a job-well-done it means a lot.  The employee’s boss finds out in the process.  The with-it boss piles on the “thank you”, and what do you have?  The perfect storm that makes employees feel great.

Exhibit A:  American Airlines runs a program called “Rounds of Applause.” The Program enables American Advantage frequent flyers to give a personalized certificate to AA employees who go the extra mile.

Exhibit B: Anyone who travels by highway has seen those signs on trucks asking, “How’s my Driving? Kelmar Safety runs this “How’s My Driving?” for companies with driving fleets in industries including trucking, law enforcement, education and delivery services. It encourages feedback from the public, which in turn provides some positive comments for employees.

Exhibit C: Internet appliance and electronics retailer ElegantAppliance.com is using social networking site Twitter to get customer feedback about its customer Web experience.

Some business to consumer companies, through their culture and way they relate to customers, generate feedback without even solicitation. One  example is Wisconsin-based Lands’ End ( part of Sears Holdings) which at one time had a band of employees who volunteered to read and respond to customer letters and emails. The benefit was mutual for the customer and employee in creating loyalty and that intangible feeling that one gets from making a difference.

Know of any other company that has a good customer praise program for employees?

We’d love to hear about it!