You’ve likely seen companies like Google, Facebook and Zappos in the news with a spotlight on the many perks their employees enjoy, like corporate cafeterias with world-class chefs, free on-site laundry or free rental cars and massages. But you don’t have to have a Facebook or Google budget to show employees you appreciate them. Here are six easy to implement, affordable ways to boost employee morale.
1. Recognize employee successes.
Call out good work to help employees to know they are appreciated and encourages them to excel. Consider a mention at an all-company meeting, a monthly post on the intranet or an annual award voted on by employees.
2. Offer food perks.
Appeal to employees’ stomachs as a sure-fire way to boost morale, whether through a regular (or surprise) team lunch, bringing a food truck to your office or donuts on Fridays. At DPI Staffing headquarters, we have a popular (and healthy!) food perk: fresh fruit in the kitchen every day.
3. Volunteer together.
Organize a volunteer opportunity, or offer employees paid time to volunteer, to show employees that you value giving back and being active in the community. Volunteering as a company can also be a great exercise in teamwork and communication.
4. Provide discounts or loyalty programs.
Work to get discounts for your employees at nearby coffee shops, restaurants, gyms or retailers. This will likely cost you nothing, but goes a long way in showing that you care. And the nearby establishment’s owner will benefit from the increased business.
5. Encourage breaks.
A few minutes away from a project can provide new perspective and increased energy, as this article in Inc. reminds us, and allows employees to make meaningful connections. Plus, giving employees the freedom to manage their own time makes them feel valued.
6. Don’t forget to have fun!
Top workplaces have fun built into their culture. That could mean a break room ping pong table, a weekly basketball game at the park around the corner or a general encouragement of silliness. Employees want to work in a positive environment where a sense of humor is appreciated, and many studies have shown that happy employees are more productive.
When corporate budgets are tight, as they’ve been the last few years, investing in employee morale can fall to the bottom of the priority list. But in order to keep spirits and productivity high, and attract and retain top-level employees, a modest investment of time and money can go a long way.
