October 16, 2023

Every October during National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the country unites to spread knowledge and show support for those affected by breast cancer. Here at Vanilla Gift, we are proud to partner with the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) to make a difference in the fight against this devasting disease that has affected the lives of millions of people. Read below to learn more about the impactful work of BCRF and how you can help us support their mission all year long. 

Vanilla® Visa® Gift’s Guide to Workplace Happiness 

Workplaces are filled with looming deadlines and mounting tasks. We understand! But employee appreciation at a goal-driven company isn't just a nicety - it’s a necessity. Recognizing and valuing your team's contributions is more than just about boosting morale; it's about driving engagement, motivation, and loyalty. Let's delve into the importance and benefits of employee appreciation and how it can transform your workplace for the better. 

The Importance of Employee Appreciation 

Employee appreciation is about acknowledging your team’s value and what they bring to the table. According to psychologist Dr. Susanna Wo-Pong Calvert, “Employees are happier, healthier, and more satisfied with work when they feel valued by their employers.”¹ When people feel valued, they become more engaged, motivated, and loyal. It cultivates a sense of belonging and encourages them to go above and beyond. 

Benefits of Employee Acknowledgment  

Employee appreciation stands as a cornerstone in cultivating a thriving workplace culture, offering many benefits. By acknowledging the contributions of employees, organizations can unlock several advantages, ranging from heightened morale and increased productivity to enhanced retention rates and improved recruitment efforts. The simple act of recognizing employees can yield significant rewards for businesses of all sizes and industries. 

1. Boosts Morale

Recognizing employees for their hard work increases morale and creates a positive workplace atmosphere. When people are recognized for their hard work and accomplishments, they feel satisfied and happy in their roles. And happiness is contagious.

2. Increases Productivity

Happy employees are productive employees. It’s a win-win for everyone. Research published in the Harvard Business Review shows that “teams perform tasks better when their members believe that their colleagues respect and appreciate them.”² This ultimately leads to greater success for the organization as a whole. 

3. Enhances Retention

Everyone knows that employee turnover can be very costly for businesses. Recruitment and training are a huge investment, not to mention the hidden costs of reduced productivity with a newbie or understaffed team. By showing appreciation and recognition, organizations can improve employee retention rates. Studies from Bersin & Associates show that companies with employee recognition programs have 31%³ lower voluntary turnover. Employees who feel appreciated are more likely to stay loyal to their company. Dr. Bob Nelson, best-selling author and employee recognition guru, famously said, “People may take a job for more money, but they often leave it for more recognition.” By recognizing your team members, you minimize the risk of losing valuable people.