How to Stop Taking Employees for Granted

5 Simple Ways to Make Your Employees Feel Valued at Work

When it comes to job satisfaction, many employees feel like they’re being neglected in some of the “softer” areas. For example, while they may feel they’re properly compensated, they may not feel particularly valued by their employer.

Signs You’re Taking Your Employees for Granted

Employees are tired of feeling like just another file in the HR department. They want (and expect) to be viewed as individuals who add value to the organization. Unfortunately, employees often feel like they’re being taken for granted.

Here are a few signs this could be the case in your own company:

• You never pause to affirm. You don’t have to go around patting everyone on the back all the time, but a total lack of affirmation shows a lack of appreciation. It’s made even worse if you’re constantly critiquing (no matter how justified the criticism is).

• You take credit for their success. Are you constantly taking credit for successful outcomes that other people were involved in achieving? Employees notice this and will start to feel neglected and bitter.

• You view their freedoms as burdens. An employee has a right to enjoy the benefits and perks that you provide them. Whether it’s taking a vacation in the middle of the summer or using a personal day when they don’t feel well, don’t make people feel guilty for using their freedoms. Taking advantage of perks should be encouraged.

• You require them to always be on. An employee can’t reasonably be expected to be “on” all the time. They need time off in the evenings and on weekends. While it’s okay to email them during these hours, make it clear that you don’t expect a response until they “clock back in.”

These are just a few of the signs that something isn’t right. If you’re uncertain of whether you’re making any of these mistakes, just ask your employees. They might be hesitant to admit it, but you can usually tell by how they respond.

5 Ways to Make Your Employees Feel Valued

The easiest way to stop taking employees for granted is to understand their value and then communicate that understanding to them through a series of intentional actions. Here are some specific ways you can do this:

1. 1-on-1 Check-Ins

There’s nothing wrong with developing a team-oriented culture where it’s one for all and all for one. However, there’s also a time to look someone in the eyes and recognize them as an individual with unique needs, strengths, and weaknesses.

One of the best ways to build individual connections is to hold regular 1-on-1 check-ins with employees. During these check-ins, it’s just you and the other employee. You should ask them to come prepared to answer three specific questions:

• What projects/tasks have you recently completed, and how do you feel they went?
• What projects are you currently working on, and how can I assist you?
• Tell me how you’re feeling on an emotional level (stress, anxiety, confidence, etc.).

Approach these meetings with a spirit of listening and encouragement. You’re there to hear what they have to say – not to critique or judge. Show empathy and work with them to provide mutually beneficial solutions to any friction they may be experiencing.

Ideally, you should have at least one 1-on-1 check-in with each employee per quarter. If you have a smaller team, you may aim for once per month. This gives you enough touchpoints throughout the year to get ahead of major problems and provide adequate encouragement.

2. Job Perks

Something as simple as adding new job perks can show employees that you care about their happiness, comfort, and enjoyment. You don’t have to do ridiculous Silicon Valley-esque things and add beer taps or napping pods to your office; however, you should tailor the perks to what your employees enjoy.

For example, if you know that your team loves to play video games, you could turn an unused office into a video game-inspired break lounge complete with TVs, consoles, and snacks. Or, if you have a competitive group of people who like to be active, a gym or basketball goal may be an option.

You can also introduce less tangible perks like the ability to work from home one day a week, or an extra personal day every month. You’ll have to tailor these perks to your team’s personality and interests.

3. Awards and Recognition

There are indirect ways to show employees that they’re appreciated (which is what we’ve discussed up until this point), and there are direct ways to let them know they’re valued. If you want to do the latter, there’s nothing better than giving out awards.

Common options include employee of the month/year, years of service awards, sales awards, customer service awards, leadership awards, or special recognition awards. Crystal award plaques are great all-purpose awards that look good when displayed on a desk. They can easily be personalized with custom engravings. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, certificates or basic wooden or acrylic plaques may work.

4. Autonomy

Some employees just want a little freedom. They’re tired of having people constantly look over their shoulders and tell them what to do. Giving them more autonomy is a sign that you appreciate them and recognize their value as an individual.

Autonomy looks different for every employee and every company. In one situation, it might look like letting an employee choose their hours. In another, it could mean giving an employee creative control over their projects. You have to decide how it plays out in your organization.

5. Personal Investment

Show employees you care about getting to know them on a personal level (within the boundaries of what’s appropriate). Schedule group hangouts with employees outside of work. Grab lunch with an employee and their significant other. Ask about what an employee did over the weekend and learn about their hobbies and interests. These are easy things to do, yet they produce a ton of relational capital.

Show Your Employees You Appreciate Them With DIY Awards

At DIY Awards, we believe appreciation should always be on display. Whether you’re looking for a plaque, trophy, or another type of gift, we’ve got you covered. We serve thousands of businesses all over the country and would love to work with you on your next employee appreciation project! Click here to shop now!