Glassdoor, an online career site, found that more than 80% of employees report they are motivated to work harder when their boss gives them appreciation for their work (2013). Alternatively, only 40% of those surveyed said that they’re more motivated when they feel that their job is in question or that their boss is demanding. Given the data collected by this and countless other surveys over the last few years, it seems quite clear that showing your employees the love is the best way to ensure top level performance from them.

What makes them feel loved? They do love great monetary compensation, but there are several other ways that an employer can show appreciation without breaking the bank. The same study said that 46% of employees would feel appreciated if their boss surprised them with a treat of some sort – and don’t just think food. Gift cards are great, a gift of a manicure or pedicure is both relaxing and rejuvenating, but even a simple thank you note that shows you see the effort an employee is putting in can be worth far more to that employee than a few extra bucks.

Don’t forget, too, that you can reward without physical gifts. Time is the one thing that no one is creating more of, and it’s the one thing that no one has enough of, so anytime you can gift your employee a few extra (paid) hours to themselves, make it happen. If paid time off can’t work, then try to make sure that recognition of that employee
is happening to your upper company leaders. Also, consider showing your appreciation to your team in the form of trust, by inviting them to be a part of the decision making processes on your property.

Another option for rewarding performance is to help your employees grow in their careers. Additional training classes are always a great option, and you can usually find a ton of options either through online webinars or through your local apartment association. How long on average does it take your manager or assistant manager to do month end close? Are all of those reports in the computer or on the cloud, therefore accessible from a remote location? The answer is probably yes. Consider taking the average time that those administrative tasks take and allowing the employee responsible the option of telecommuting in from home while doing that work. It seems like you’re asking for trouble, but the truth is, according to the Harvard Business Review, allowing your employees to work from home not only keeps them happier, but more productive by eliminating the constant interruptions and allowing your employee to focus on the task at hand. Of course, most of our work at the site level in this industry can’t be done from home, but when it can, it’s something to consider.

When all else fails, don’t underestimate the value of a simple and specific THANK YOU. Keep it in the moment, tell them why you’re thanking them, how their actions have impacted you, and why you are so glad to have them as part of your team. No matter what you do, expressing your appreciation to your team members should be front and center on your to do list this quarter!