Employee Gifts Beat the February Blahs

Did you know that February is National “Blah Buster Month”?Well, according to Oracle Education Foundation’s ThinkQuest it is.

For a lot of people, it’s true at home and it’s true at work. So as a businessperson, how do you help employees beat the blahs?
One great way is to create opportunities for physical activity.  Could be the flexibility for free time to allow employees to exercise, a workgroup party – bowling, laser-tag or outdoor skating, or a hands-on community service project.  Physical work is good for one’s spirit and one’s body.  Add some teamwork with it and you have a win, win for all.  That’s the key for some My Fitness Pal members.
Member “Scoobiesnax” posted “The February ‘Blahs.’ how do YOU beat them …?” saying:

“So the dreariest month of the year is upon us, and for many people (especially those who live in a colder climate as I do here in Ontario, Canada) it tends to be the hardest month to stay motivated … what [are] people … doing to stay motivated and fresh during this dull time of year?”

Fellow members answered:

• I’ve started Vitamin D recently but not sure just how much it’s helped…
• I take full advantage of every sunny and non-rainy day by going outside to run/walk and get fresh air.
• I’m adding an hour to 2 hours every evening of Badminton … I love it!

Exercise is certainly healthy and uplifting, plus research shows it’s good for your your business, not just your employees.  Another great way to lift employees’ spirits is a small gift.  Indeed, at the American Express small business site Open Forum, writer and teacher Jacob Harper, formerly with Top Story Weekly, writes in “5 Easy Ways to Brighten Your Employee’s Days”:

“With all the responsibilities that come with being a boss, it can be tempting to overlook your role in maintaining your employee’s happiness. But some of the best leaders will tell you even small gestures can make a tremendous impact on company morale and, in turn, the success of the business overall. 

Give a small gift. Listen. Does an employee rave about a favorite lunchtime spot or coffee bar? Get them a gift certificate so their next few visits will be on your bill.”

What about a favorite food? Or an informal workgroup pizza lunch?  Showing your recognition and interest helps lift’s spirits; share your attention and thanks broadly so your whole organization benefits.
Whatever delights your employee, there’s likely a gThankYou! Gift Certificate of Gratitude to match.  Just add a smile, handshake, sincere thanks and watch your employee shed the blahs. Just like that.

Here’s the story: “If you’ve been to the UC Davis Coffee House at some point these past couple years, you’ve met Kyle. And I’m pretty sure he waved at you with the biggest smile, and greeted you like you were one of his closest friends. 

 With the help of his CoHo coworkers and their spontaneous donations, this goober got an extra special surprise after Game 1 … a ticket to see his favorite team play in the World Series, ticket and transportation costs covered completely.” 

You may not generate quite as much joy as University of California, Davis Coffee House, or CoHo, did with its expensive gift, but your employees will definitely appreciate an infectious smile and your appreciation. It’ll banish the blahs and make them think of you. Happy February!
How do you help your employees beat the February blahs? How do you chase away your own blahs?
About gThankYou, LLC

Turkey Gift Certificates and Turkey Or Ham Gift Certificates by gThankYou! are two of America’s favorite employee gifts and can be redeemed for any Brand (Turkey or Turkey Or Ham), at virtually any Grocery Store in the U.S.
gThankYou, LLC provides company leaders with a variety of easy, meaningful and affordable ways to recognize and reward employees, holiday time or anytime.  gThankYou! Certificates of Gratitude and our free Enclosure Cards are personalizable including incorporating your company logo. And, nearly all orders ship same day.
gThankYou, LLC (www.gthankyou.com) is based in Madison, Wisconsin.  Contact:  Rick Kiley, Chief ThankYou! Officer, gThankYou, LLC at info@gthankyou.com or 888-484-1658.
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