If you’re anything like most American workers, you spend just as much (if not more) time with your co-workers each week as you do your family and friends. Being part of a hardworking, motivated team makes long hours seem a little more worthwhile and much more enjoyable. While the task of boosting workplace morale typically falls in the hands of upper management, being an encouraging and motivating colleague can help increase team camaraderie.
As a coworker, the quickest way to boost teamwork and ensure continued success is by recognizing the hard work exhibited by your colleagues.
Simple Ways to Recognize Coworkers
and Boost Office Morale
Say Please and Thank You.
It may seem too simple, but being respectful of your coworkers is a great way to show your appreciation for them. A little kindness can go a long way. Whether you’re asking for help on a project or delegating tasks to them, try to include “please” into every request. When the request is completed make sure you follow up either verbally or in email with a “thank you”. Saying thank you shows coworkers that you recognize that they completed a request and are very appreciative of the time and work they put into it.
Give Them a Shout Out.
Show co-workers how much you truly appreciate them by singing their praises in staff meetings. Public recognition not only shows your colleague that you want everyone to know what an all-star they are; it boosts confidence and motivates them to work even harder.
Take Them to Lunch.
Surprise a well-deserving coworker by taking them to lunch as a token of your appreciation. When you eat and socialize with your co-workers outside of the office, you build deeper relationships and make a positive statement. It also sends the signal that you’re easily approachable and want to become more involved in the workplace.
Have Fun Together.
As mentioned earlier, if your team doesn’t enjoy spending time together, the office can seem like a real drag. There has to be a balance between work and play if you want to love your job. While you probably can’t go on lavish excursions with your team, there is an abundance of other ways to have fun together. Recognize big team accomplishments with a happy hour or trip to a movie. Celebrate team birthdays with cookies or cupcakes. It’s important to celebrate milestones and successes as a team.
Studies have shown that encouragement and recognition that come from coworkers can actually be more effective at boosting morale than motivation from management. The bottom line is that the more you trust and appreciate each other, the more collaborative and productive your team will become.
If you’ve tried to boost the morale in your office to no amends, it may be time to look for a better opportunity at a place where coworkers appreciate each other. Let the experienced team at BOS Staffing guide you through your search. With over 35 years of experience, we understand how important the right job match is. Kick start your job search by contacting us today.
