Employee Appreciation Day

Well, we're having Employee Appreciation Day this coming August 17. It's on a Tuesday. Sorry, if you're off that day you will not be "appreciated." Ok, all cynicism aside, this is not a bad thing. But it's hard for the cynicism not to kick in. Because things like this just reek of insincerity and purely a photo-op for management to say, "Hey we mix it up with the workforce in a fun way! And look, we have pictures to prove it!"

While things like this are a very nice gesture, what would be even better is if they showed their appreciation on a daily or at least semi-frequent basis. Little things like coming down to the floor and just talking with us. Not talking TO or AT us, but WITH us. Saying simple things to us, such as "thanks and glad that you're here" or whatever, shows more that they care than a photo-op. And these things don't cost money. They won't affect the bottom line. And it's easy to do.

Management does read this blog. And if you're one of those managers reading this right now, think about this for a second. Show your appreciation to us, other than just an annual or semi-annual photo-op. A little bit of humility goes a long way.