Keeping Your Employees Upbeat in a Challenging Economy

You can’t open a newspaper or listen to the radio these days without a bombardment of economic doomsday articles.  While many companies are trimming the fat, there’s one area of the budget that’s quite possibly more necessary than ever before – employee service awards.  It’s understandable that employees, no matter the company, may be a little nervous and even grumbling about what may happen to their position.  Keeping the work environment feeling positive is challenging at best, but there are certainly a number of cost-effective ways to help build a sense of community, fun, and bonding within your staff – feelings we all could use a little more of!

Many businesses have nixed the company picnic in favor of cutting corners, but you don’t have to go all out to have a good time.  Turn that expensive catered pig roast into a fun potluck, and instead of raffling off color televisions and weekend getaways, try handing out affordable, fun, and practical items such as this (insert very cool, inexpensive summery items with pictures) and this impressively affordable (another cool thingie here). 

Birthday parties emptying your petty cash?  Again, a great time for a potluck.  Or try a simple “Happy Birthday” gift hidden in your employee’s desk.  Fill up this attractive personalized coffee mug with their favorite munchie or some pens and pencils.  There are even things such as watches and jewelry that won’t break the bank! While the gift may be inexpensive and simple to order, the employee can’t help but get the message that they’ve been remembered on their special day.

These are just a few ideas, but it’s easy to see how the effort will outweigh the minimal costs.  It’s important for employees to feel valued, especially during an economic crisis.  As a member of your human resources team, getting creative in expressing this sentiment doesn’t have to be overwhelming!  Let one of our customer service representatives give you a hand.  We’re really fun and we promise to help you find great, affordable your employees will love you for! See our Home Page for contact info.