Cash-Free Employee Appreciation Ideas

Your salon employees play an essential role in the success of your business. As a salon owner with a multitude of responsibilities, you should be grateful for the people who take on much of the workload and make significant contributions toward the productivity of your business.

There are several ways in which you can show your employees how much you appreciate them without having to resort to cash. Here are a few practical ways to demonstrate to your employees that they’re valued.

Gifting

Some behavioral professionals believe that employers should opt to reward employees with gifts or experiences versus cash. The theory speculates that when a person accepts money, they are torn between saving it and spending it. Instead of a cash bonus, consider rewarding your team with education, a team outing, a weekend get-away or individual gifts in the same amount. With a vacation, gift or experience, they can enjoy the offering without any guilt. No matter what you opt to give them, spend extra effort in identifying a non-cash way to show your employees your gratitude.

Acknowledge & Compliment

Find a sincere way to acknowledge the work of your employees. Consider starting an employee recognition program where you spotlight top-performing team members and the work they’ve done. Give them sincere praise and work to build them up for continued success.

Give Thanks

In addition to bolstering your team and your business’ service-first culture, gratitude can motivate employees more than money. Most employees would feel better about their efforts if they were thanked more regularly by management. With that in mind, take the time to thank your team members, preferably in person. You can also write a personal note of thanks or give kudos at a more formal setting like an awards event or a staff meeting. Regardless of how, make a genuine effort to thank them, and to do so on a regular basis.

Your employees are the lifeblood of your salon. Show your appreciation in a way that is authentic to you, and meaningful to them. Happy and appreciated employees translate to better customer care and ultimately a stronger bottom line for your salon.