Valentine’s month and beyond…
She shuffled into the kitchen, exhausted. Her eyes were puffy and heavy from lack of sleep. Working full time, maintaining a busy house, managing and caring for her husband and several small children was certainly taking its toll. But there, on the kitchen counter, just in time for Valentine’s Day, was a box of chocolates, a bouquet of roses and a lovely card. The same gifts she received last year, and the year before, and come to think of it every…year…for…twelve…years. And she began to wonder: “Why is my Love so uninspired by me that he resorts to these stereotypical, lackluster tokens of affection?”
Every year, across the world, businesses dedicate time and spend significant money to recognize relationships that are valuable to them. Holiday baskets, communication cards, visits of appreciation, employee bonuses, holiday parties, these are the boxed chocolates and bouquets of the business world. But is it possible that our efforts are actually causing us to lose ground in relationships that mean the most to us? Is a gift of candy to a dieting loved one all that different than an emailed card to a client trying to cut back on fluff in his or her mail box? Both can be well intended but can translate as thoughtless. How often does an after-hours office party turn into “just one more thing to cram into your already busy holiday schedule” for your employees?
Here are some unconventional ideas to spice up your love business/employee relationships:
- Combine purpose with pleasantries
If possible, create communications that serve dual purposes. For example: Holiday greetings with adjusted holiday hours or a useful coupon can be pleasant and can meet client/company needs without over-running a client’s inbox.
- Give gifts at unpredictable times
Don’t alter end-of-year bonus policies or successfully established practices, but do consider random, “just thinking of you” or “we appreciate you”, notes or gifts. These can foster and encourage company/client or company/employee loyalty. Everyone appreciates unsolicited encouragement. One caution here: mass emails and company wide solicitations can appear insincere and reek of hidden motivation, so keep it personal.
- Note the notable when it’s not necessary
Noticing a company or an employee’s anniversary, business achievement or personal milestone can go a long way in developing relationships that really matter.
- Celebrate at atypical times or places
Try hosting an employee party after the New Year, for an offbeat holiday, or to celebrate a company milestone. Picnics, events, and locations that host fun activities can also allow your employees to connect without the pressure of a “company hosted” happy hour or in-office function.
- Take a tip from Google
