As the spring season approaches, many employees experience a decrease in productivity — also known as the “spring slump.” This can be attributed to the time change and the lack of motivation that sometimes lingers from the tail-end of winter.
Of course, this can harm the workplace, leading to missed deadlines, decreased morale, and a lack of motivation among team members. So to combat the spring slump, employers should look to find effective ways to show appreciation and boost morale in the workplace.
Some best ways to show employee appreciation are through gifts, workplace initiatives, and recognition. Let’s dive into how management can show their employees value through these great employee appreciation ideas.
Benefits of Employee Gifting on Productivity
Study after study shows that employees benefit significantly from being shown appreciation, even if it’s through small gestures — and here’s how:
- Increased motivation and engagement
- Enhanced employee loyalty and retention
- Boosted teamwork and collaboration
- Improved work-life balance
- Positive impact on the company’s bottom line
Read on to find some of the creative, fun, and effective spring employee appreciation ideas for the spring season.
Employee Appreciation Gift Idea Section #1: Give a Physical Gift
More than 75% of surveyed employees say a meaningful gift makes them feel recognized.
So whether you’re shopping for the holidays, an anniversary, Employee Appreciation Day, or just “because,” giving a gift can be a great opportunity to show appreciation through a thoughtful and personalized gesture.
#1: Grocery Gift Certificate
One of the most practical yet thoughtful gifts an employer can give an employee is a grocery gift certificate.
While this may not seem like a traditional gift, its value goes well beyond its monetary worth: It has emotional value — and food is a love language everybody speaks.
Even more importantly, a grocery gift certificate can alleviate stress over finances for your employees. Over half of all Americans are concerned about keeping up with the constant rise in the cost of living.
The best part is when you gift a grocery gift certificate. You can personalize it by choosing from several gift certificates: Turkey or ham, meats with fruits and vegetables, beef steaks, vegan, or a general gift certificate that lets your employee choose how they want to spend it, making the gift feel more thoughtful and personalized.
#2: Gardening Kits
Gardening is a highly-therapeutic activity and can be a great gift option during the spring slump. Not only does gardening help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, but it also fosters creativity and a sense of accomplishment.
#3: Water Bottles and Travel Mugs
Chances are your office has a water cooler. And yet, nearly 80% of employees say they don’t drink enough water.
A water bottle on your employees’ desks is a visual reminder to get up and refill their bottles. Plus, giving the gift of a reusable water bottle or travel mug means you’re also giving the gift of sustainability!
#4: Spring-Scented Candles
Certain scents can reduce stress and anxiety, improve focus and concentration, and enhance mood and emotions — so spring-scented candles are perfect for anyone experiencing the spring slump, especially if your team members work from home.
Some of the most relaxing scents you should look for are lavender, rosemary, citrus, vanilla, peppermint, basil, chamomile, eucalyptus, and cinnamon.
But be careful about the ingredients. Instead of traditional paraffin candles (made from petroleum), opt for natural soy wax candles: They’re vegan, cruelty-free, and not harmful to children, pets, or those with sensitive allergies.
Employee Appreciation Gift Idea Section #2: Team-Building Activities and Initiatives
Whether you’re doing an outdoor team-building activity, a wellness initiative, or offering flexible schedules, these gestures and ideas can improve communication, enhance problem-solving skills, build stronger relationships, boost morale, and create positive company culture.
#5: Outdoor Team-Building Activities
Taking the team out for a special lunch or outing can help foster a sense of community and camaraderie among team members while also celebrating the achievements of the individual employee.
This can be as simple as a catered lunch, a happy hour, or a special day trip.
But the key here is to leave the office and engage in an outdoor activity.
One workplace went on a camping trip retreat, and the CEO’s team discussed and came to a solution over a work topic in 45 minutes over the campfire that would have otherwise taken 30 hours of meetings in the office!
#6: Wellness-Focused Initiatives
There are plenty of wellness-focused initiatives that you can choose from:
- Health and fitness challenges
- Ergonomic workstations
- Healthy snacks and beverages in the break room
- Offering mental health support
You can also create a fun challenge with a deadline and prize — such as walking 10,000 steps a week for three months and offering a monetary reward.
#7: Flexible Scheduling Options
With talk of the four-day workweek crossing many employees’ minds, there’s no question that employees — especially those who work in-office — value schedule flexibility and free time.
If possible, allow your employees to work from home every so often. One study found that employees who worked from home or had hybrid schedules were much more productive!
Employee Appreciation Gift Idea Section #3: Celebrate Employee Milestones and Achievements
When employees feel valued and recognized for their hard work are more likely to be motivated and engaged.
But why?
It all comes down to the chemical messenger called dopamine. Dopamine is associated with reward, pleasure, motivation, emotions, learning, and mood.
So when your employees feel recognized for their work, it triggers dopamine release!
#8: Public Recognition
Recognizing employees in front of the whole team can greatly show gratitude and appreciation for their hard work.
This can be done in a team meeting, a public announcement, or organization-wide emails or newsletters.
Some companies also use employee recognition programs or applications where employees can publicly thank and compliment each other.
#9: Personalized Gifts
Employers can provide personalized appreciation gifts of team member recognition, such as plaques, certificates, or other commemorative items to celebrate employee milestones and achievements.
#10: Special Bonuses
Providing a bonus or promotion to an employee who has achieved a milestone or made significant contributions to the company is a great way to show appreciation for their hard work and dedication!
Conclusion
Employee appreciation and gifting are crucial to maintaining a positive and productive work environment.
And while there are many employee appreciation gifts and ideas, a general grocery store certificate is a practical and versatile option that allows employees to purchase items they genuinely need and want.
Grocery gift certificates can have significant emotional value to the recipient because they provide the freedom and flexibility to choose food or other grocery items that suit their needs and preferences, which can be a very satisfying and empowering experience.
Our certificates are easy to order, giving the recipient the freedom and flexibility to choose the groceries they need or want. Gift the right way and get a general grocery gift certificate today!