Appreciate your employees today & everyday: the keys to a happier, more productive staff.

William is an aspiring attorney and has been working as a legal assistant in a prestigious law firm for the past 18 months. He loves the idea of fulfilling his dream and works long hours, without being asked. William is well-paid and enjoys every bit of his job; however, there is just one significant element of dissatisfaction. He has no knowledge of his value to the firm; he doesn't feel appreciated. Should this be a concern for management?

Yes! Management should be concerned because it greatly impacts an employee's view of you, the job, and the company as a whole. Research has consistently shown that people will not give their best for money alone, but they will work harder and with more passion, for recognition and a bit of appreciation.

It's important to show your employees how much you value them and their contributions--no matter how large or small--to the business. No special occasion is necessary. Small surprises and tokens of your appreciation spread throughout the year will help your employees feel valued. While there are hundreds of ideas out there, here are a few inexpensive tips that you can implement in your office today: Praise employees for a job well done. Identify the specific actions that you found admirable even if they are daily routine duties. It's easy to lose the thrill and challenge within certain job descriptions if they are performed on a regular basis and are considered menial. Simple statements such as "please" and "you're doing such a great job" or just asking if there is anything you can do to improve the quality and satisfaction of the job, can go a long way.

Take Sarah, for example. She had worked on the housekeeping staff at a local hotel for more than five years. She was primarily responsible for cleaning and stocking the public areas, including the rest rooms. She was always on time, never missed a day of work, and never received any complaints. She never received any compliments either. During her fifth year, the hotel came under new management. Shortly thereafter, she noticed that the new hotel manager would always nod and smile when he saw her. One day, he stopped and asked her name. Surprised, Sarah responded. Then, he said, "Sarah, these restrooms are always clean and stocked with everything our guests need. I can't tell you how much I appreciate how you help us to maintain high standards of service and excellence. If there is anything I can do to make your job easier, please let me know." Sarah was stunned. In all her years on the cleaning staff, she had never received any kind of compliment regarding her work.