As a business owner with over 20 years of experience in human resources, I understand the critical role recognition plays in fostering engagement and productivity among colleagues. I also recognize administrative support's role in lightening the load of business professionals and organizations. I am fortunate to have a dynamic administrative assistant. Despite operating in a mostly virtual environment, I prioritize recognizing and appreciating my team's contributions.
Whether responding reasonably to their emails as I would a client, championing their ideas, or sending thank-you notes, these gestures emphasize AllProfit HR's mission to build a sustainable and stellar culture of belonging for all. Additionally, facilitating regular check-ins allows for ongoing performance development and engagement, ensuring real-time alignment and response to organizational goals.
Recognizing administrative professionals on Administrative Professionals Day - April 24, 2024 - is essential for acknowledging their hard work and dedication. Recognition can come in any gesture, but the goal is to exercise authenticity while promoting wellness and creativity to foster retention. Below, I’ve identified five meaningful ways to show appreciation:
Personalized Thank-You Note: Express gratitude for their contributions with a heartfelt note highlighting their impact on the organization.
Small Gift or Token of Appreciation: Consider giving a small gift or token of appreciation, such as a gift card or personalized desk accessory, to show gratitude. Taking your administrator out to lunch is always a nice gesture.
Public Recognition: Acknowledge their achievements publicly during team meetings or via company-wide communication to showcase their contributions.
Professional Development Opportunity: Invest in their growth and development by providing access to online courses or workshops relevant to their role.
Flexible Work Arrangement: Offer flexibility in their work schedule or additional time off as a gesture of appreciation for their hard work and dedication.
No Employees - Yet
Are you a solopreneur?
You are not alone. According to the Small Business Administration, of the 50 million small businesses in the United States employing 1-499 individuals, 8 out of 10 were businesses with only one employee - the business owner.
Before disregarding this blog post and thinking, "I don't have any employees," go forth and think big for the future. In the interim, consider how you can appreciate your village, business, and yourself today. Reflect on who has helped you personally or professionally this month to accomplish the objectives of your business:
Maybe it's a family member?
Possibly a significant other or friend?
How about one of your clients?
Last but not least, do not forget about yourself.
As an Integrated Life Coach, I encourage you to take a moment to stop and reflect on at least one achievement to celebrate this month and write a thank you note to them, your business, or yourself. I remember being a solopreneur. Those appreciative notes of gratitude reminded me that even when I felt alone, I was not alone and had so much to appreciate.
APHR Guidance
By recognizing and appreciating your administrative professionals, you reinforce their value as stakeholders in your business and contribute to developing a culture of belonging for all. As your People, Culture, and Empowerment Partners, we are always ready to assist with your recognition endeavors. Reach out to discuss your needs.
Share Your Thoughts
Join the conversation on the transformative power of recognition. Let's reimagine people-centered workplaces where everyone profits - personally and professionally.
How do you show appreciation for administrative professionals in your organization beyond Administrative Professionals Day?