Employees are the ones who make your business tick and keep it ticking. So if that's true and you genuinely care about your employees, then staying in touch with them on a regular basis is probably high on your list of things to do. But when the day comes that they've worked for you long enough to say they've been on board for five years and you want to do something more memorable than just bribing them with taking them out to dinner at the local burger joint, then why not try one of these suggested creative ideas for such a milestone in their career at your growing company?
Most companies are not thoughtful when it comes to celebrating their employees' work anniversaries. Instead, they just send a 25-dollars gift card and call it a celebration. And if that's the way your company does it too, that's not really a celebration at all! If you want to do something that would make an impact in their lives and show your employees that you really care, then you have got to start thinking big.
"The most memorable work anniversaries are usually not about the money, it's more about how you treat people, and giving them something they will remember." - By Robert H. Anderson, president of Benchmark Communications, a business communications firm in Minneapolis.
If you are looking for some ideas on how to celebrate a work anniversary, here are some suggestions:
A work anniversary is a great way to celebrate your employees’ hard work and dedication, but it can sometimes be difficult to find the right words. You may feel that you don’t know what to say, or you might think that you will come off as insincere if you simply write “Happy Work Anniversary!” in a card.
However, there are many ways to make your card more memorable and thoughtful.
Remember, the perfect way to say thank you is by sending a thoughtful card. A simple gesture like this can go a long way in building a positive relationship with your employees, helping you create a happier workplace.
Your employees may have forgotten about their work anniversary. But it’s a great opportunity for you to surprise and celebrate them by showing your appreciation for their hard work.
Plan a small celebration in the office. This can be anything from a cake and balloons to a dinner with their co-workers. The idea is to make them feel special on this day. Consider setting up an area with snacks, drinks and games that employees can enjoy during their lunch break.
You can have fun games like “Never have I ever” or “bingo” customized for everyone to get to know more about that employee. It's also an excellent opportunity for team building and bonding.
Pro tip: Invite their family to join the celebration at the office. If possible, invite them to a luncheon or dinner in honor of their employee's work anniversary.
Gift them with customized awards that celebrate their contributions and achievements. These awards are perfect for celebrating milestones like 5 years, 10 years and 15 years of service in the company.
You can also give out personalized trophies that recognize their special talents like “go-to person for everyone in the team”, “best presenter we can't afford to miss” etc.
These trophies or awards will definitely go a long way in motivating your employees and making them feel special too!
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You can congratulate them with a simple card or gift, but if you really want to make an impression, think outside the box — and give them something they’ll remember forever.
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If you can afford it, let your employee take off the day after their anniversary. This will give them time to relax and enjoy the moment.
People who work long hours often lose track of time and days can start to blend together. Giving them an extra day off can help remind them that they're appreciated and valued by their company.
Or you might also consider giving your employees the option to work from home on their anniversary, if possible.
Celebrating milestones, whether it be a first year work anniversary or even tenth year, it’s vital to take the time to recognize and appreciate your employees as they come through one year at your company to the next.
Celebrating these important milestones is key for retention and morale. However, coming up with an original idea doesn't have to be difficult. All it takes is a bit of brainstorming and some careful planning. But instead of doing the same thing every year, get creative with how you celebrate this milestone in your employees’ lives!
Bonus: From work anniversary celebrations to dealing with Monday blues and employee burnout, we have team building activities catering to every team need. Partner with us to unleash the fullest potential of your team with the help of fun and engaging experiences
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