Recognizing anniversaries and milestones can have a big impact on company morale. According to Gallup®, only about one in three employees are engaged at work. Celebrations and other forms of recognition provide ways to acknowledge hard work and dedication—and that can help improve employee engagement. Recognizing employee success can also motivate other staff members.
Employee anniversary recognition ideas
Gifts—especially unique ones—are an effective way to celebrate your employees’ achievements.
Provide tiered gift choices
All anniversaries are important, but a long-term employee deserves a more robust. Develop gift tiers to recognize anniversaries from five years to 50 years. Put several gifts in each tier and then let employees choose whatever tickles their fancy. Gifts could range from a logo’d fleece or set of imprinted wine glasses to a rolling carry-on suitcase or elegant clock.
Present a personal gift
If you’re looking to make a more personal choice, consider gifts tailored to individual employee interests. Employees who love food might appreciate a restaurant gift card. Buy tickets to a comedy show for the team comedian, or give movie passes to the film enthusiast. Make your presentation perfect by giving it in a logo’d gift bag.
Treat them to lunch
Sometimes the greatest gift of all is the gift of time. Organize a department lunch or end-of-day happy hour. Have staff sign a card and don’t forget the anniversary cake!
Create a heartfelt video
Milestones such as 10, 20 or 30+years of service are particularly noteworthy. According to a survey by Workopolis Canada, only 30 percent of Canadians stayed in the same position for more than four years, while 51 percent changed jobs every two years. Celebrate those who break the mold with a special gift, such as a testimonial video. Ask co-workers to talk about their teammate and record favourite memories or lessons learned. Present the video on a laser-engraved Executive Trim USB Drive.
Design a commemorative book
A book is another great choice for long-established employees. Take photos, write down funny memories and record accomplishments. When you present the book, don’t forget to include an e-version.
Make your staff feel special by celebrating employee anniversaries. The result will be happier, more engaged employees—something that’s good for your business, its people and its bottom line.