Year-End Gratitude: Six Ways to Thank Your Team
The year is winding down and holiday spirit is everywhere. With it comes a feeling of lightness, of celebration, and of thankfulness. As you close your own year, think about the people who report to you. What did they do to help you achieve goals, take time off, or meet tight deadlines? Now is an ideal time to recognize the gifts your direct reports gave you throughout the year.
As a leader, you have a tremendous opportunity to remind your team of the specific contributions they made during 2023. Capitalize on the opportunity to genuinely show appreciation in a way that feels natural to you. Some ideas to consider:
Coffee Outing
I like this one because it can be held in-person or virtually and it's great for the winter season. If in person, find a cute, local coffee shop and gather with the team for some warm beverages and pastries. If virtual, send the team gift cards or allow the team to expense up to $15 for a coffee and treat. In addition to thanking the team, talk about your favorite holiday recipes and foods as you gather.
Team Charitable Gift
Early in my career, I had a direct report share that the best gift he could ever receive is a donation to a charity he cared about. It stays with me, and it is a great way to support the communities where your team lives and works. Gather the opinions of your team to determine a charitable organization and make a difference in the lives of others.
Handwritten Thank-You Cards
Never underestimate the power of your words. Envision each of your direct reports placing your thank-you note on their kitchen fridge or office cork board at home. Take the time to write from the heart, uniquely recognizing the contributions each person made this year. You'll feel the effects of this in a positive way, too.
Holiday Jam Session
Ask the team to send you their favorite holiday tune and hold an in-person or virtual session to play the tunes. Share what you appreciate about each person as their song plays. Use the chat feature to talk about your favorite holiday memories, or talk between tracks to learn more about your team's holiday traditions.
The Gift of Time - In Advance
Many companies close early before observed holidays. This is a great benefit, especially when you can let people know in advance. Give the team as much notice as you can - it could impact the amount of time they get to spend with those they love. Another tip - instead of closing at 2 pm, for example, let employees know they can head out 3 hours before their normal end time. This allows everyone to enjoy the full benefit, no matter what time they start their day.
Planting the Future
Send each team member a plant, such as an orchid or violet, to demonstrate the collective and individual growth that occurred during the year. Encourage direct reports to name the plant and track the growth (or lack of growth) through the upcoming year. It is a fun way for the team to compete and see how the plants fare in various locations.
Wishing you and your team a great rest of the year with the time to appreciate all you've accomplished together.
Dr. Katie Stone is the founder of Together Evolving. Email Katie at katie.stone@togetherevolving.com to learn more about the transformational impact coaching has on you and your leadership.