Appreciation in the Workplace

female nurse smiling

Realize the Power of Appreciation

Showing Appreciation to Nursing Care Employees

Think of the last time you felt appreciated by your employer. Perhaps a manager pulled you aside and praised how you handled a difficult patient and family interaction. Maybe your boss sent out a company-wide message recognizing how your actions made a positive impact for a client. Or, as may be the case for some, you may not recall a time when you were shown appreciation or recognized by your employer.

Several years ago, HubSpot conducted a study on employee feedback that reported 39 percent of employees did not feel appreciated at work. An even greater number—69 percent—reported that they would work harder at work if their efforts were better recognized.

In recent months, we have discussed the challenges of nursing care employee recruitment and retention, as well as how to best help nursing professionals build resilience in order to thrive in their jobs. During these challenging times, particularly in healthcare environments, showing appreciation to our employees can be a very powerful tool that helps them feel valued and engaged in their work.

  • Give thanks. Remember that your employees are not robots. Our nursing care professionals are tested every single day and can easily become depleted mentally and emotionally. Receiving a simple, “Thank you,” whether it is a handwritten note or a verbal recognition, can help to restore their spirit.
  • Be specific in your recognition. Whenever you are able, offer specific recognition and feedback. While general praise directed toward your team is a start, it may not be as effective as a specific acknowledgment of something an individual employee did that made a difference for your organization, one of their coworkers, or one of the patients and families you serve.
  • Prioritize their personal well-being. Your employees are real people with challenges and responsibilities outside of work. If at all possible, offer them opportunities to rest and recharge, and provide flexible scheduling that helps them achieve a better work-life balance. Let them know it is acceptable to prioritize their own self-care and wellness. When they understand their employer appreciates them as a whole person, both on and off the clock, they will likely become more engaged and fulfilled employees.

How are you showing appreciation to employees in your senior living community? If we can provide additional ideas and support, please do not hesitate to reach out.

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