Page 168 - Perfect Phrases for Motivating and Rewarding

Gifts and Special Occasions

The Motivational Mindset
■ After an especially taxing day, a small surprise (even a candy
bar or piece of fruit) waiting on someone’s desk in the
morning with a note shows your appreciation. Any small,
unexpected gift to say, “Thanks,” or “You’re doing a great job,”
can make someone’s day.
■ If you have a formal incentive program, do not give small gifts
in lieu of points. Someone who is working toward a catalogue
item will most likely wish you’d showed your gratitude in
points (if it is up to your discretion).
■ A handwritten note becomes even more caring as the custom
fades.
■ You might want to bring back a small gift from the islands for
the person who picked up your slack or took care of a difficult
problem while you were gone. Don’t bring back gifts for some
and not others, with the exception of the person who filled in
for you.
■ If you choose to give a personal gift for birthdays or holidays
(holiday gifts do not replace bonuses), choose something
appropriate. A gag gift you would give to a friend might not
be appropriate in the office. Giving a gift of a sexual nature
constitutes sexual harassment.
■ Birthdays are personal holidays, and many companies include
birthdays off in their packages. If you cannot give a birthday
off, a lunchtime or short office celebration shows that you
believe the person and the day are special.
■ If someone is sensitive about a birthday, respect that person’s
wishes and privacy. You can still celebrate the people who
enjoy it without making the ones who don’t uncomfortable.
■ Weddings, commitment ceremonies, births, and adoptions are
important events and should be acknowledged and cheered.
Depending on time, budget, policy, and the size of your staff,

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