Did you know that 78% of employees would put in more effort at work if they received recognition for their efforts? It seems simple, yet many companies struggle with it. Regardless of the field, recognition and praise are key to success. Luckily, some companies are excelling in this area. Take a look at them.
#1- Hyatt Hotels
In 2014, Hyatt earned a spot on Fortune’s list of “100 Best Companies to Work For,” and it’s easy to see why. Since 2009, they have received many awards for their focus on employee appreciation, diversity, and more. A hotel chain may not be the first type of business that comes to mind for “employee appreciation,” but Hyatt is certainly doing it well.
So what are they doing? Robb Webb, Chief Human Resources Officer of Hyatt, said “At Hyatt, the satisfaction and well-being of our associates is fundamental to the success of our business, because they are the ones who care for our guests each and every day.” At the most basic level, genuinely caring for employees is the best way to appreciate them.
#2- Disney
We’re not surprised that Disney, owner of the “Happiest Place on Earth” is nailing employee appreciation. Disney encourages their employees to inspire others, go out of their way to create happiness and find new ways to deliver magic — and they make sure to reward for it!
One of their favorite ways to appreciate employees is also one of the simplest. A small, sincere “thank you,” delivered consistently, lies at the base of their employee recognition programs. After the thank you comes special-edition pins for name tags, custom-made trophies, and VIP “Service Celebrations” designed to reward those employees who go above and beyond.
#3- Deloitte
Deloitte knows employee engagement and employee appreciation. Bersin by Deloitte often does research into that very topic. When it comes to appreciating their own employees, Deloitte focuses on career development and education. Their leadership development programs are widespread, flexible and unique.
That focus is paying off — Deloitte has been named one of Fortune’s “100 Best Companies To Work For” for 17 years in a row. They empower and support the well-being of their employees because they know when their employees feel appreciated, the whole company benefits.
#4- MARS
Working with M&Ms, Snickers, and Milky Ways might be a reward on its own, but MARS didn’t want to stop there. To show their employees how much they care, the leaders of MARS offer an abundance of benefits. These include paid time off to volunteer and paternity leave, on top of a hefty 401k matching plan.
They also have extensive health and wellness programs for their employees that ensure they’re well cared for. According to their website, keeping their associates “motivated, productive, happy and healthy isn’t just important — it’s essential.”
#5- Zappos
Online retailer Zappos is committed to building team and family spirit among their employees. One of the ways they do it is through employee appreciation, which isn’t just top-down, but 360 degrees. Front and center stands their Coworker Bonus Program, which allows employees to award an extra $50 a month to a coworker who has truly gone above and beyond.
According to their website, Zappos’ working space is dedicated to treating their employees. It includes a bistro, yoga studio, nap room, gym, rooftop deck and more!
The lesson here is that actually caring about your employees and wanting them to succeed and be happy is the key to appreciation. You may not be able to give them an indoor swimming pool or pay for pizza Fridays every week, but a simple “thank you” can go a long way.