Celebrating a work anniversary

Most people spend a huge portion of their lives at work. They are proud of their dedication and place immense effort into furthering their skills and the outreach of their companies. That being said, when a person has a work anniversary, it’s important to celebrate! Here are some ways to mark the big day at your workplace:

Give the honoree a card
It’s common for offices to have their staff write an anniversary card for the person who is celebrating. On this card they will write fun memories, inside jokes and heart-felt thanks for all their hard work. There are many styles of anniversary cards out there, from funny ones to more serious, elegant options. You’re sure to find one that fits the honoree! Your company could even create their own custom note cards to use on similar occasions.

Host a gathering
A card is well and good, but so is an in-person soiree. Why not honor the person who is celebrating his or her anniversary with a work potluck? Have everyone bring tasty foods to enjoy at lunch during a break. Or, host an after-work gathering so everyone can relax and enjoy one another’s company away from the office. Keep the celebration local to your workplace so anyone can attend. Consider buying a round on the company to show your employees that they are valued and their hard work pays off.

Talk raises
Many companies choose to note their appreciation for their staff by offering incentives for their loyalty. When employees have been a part of the organization for a year, for example, they may earn a pay raise, access to special benefits or perhaps a nicer office. Employee retention is a key issue for many companies, and letting your staff know they’ll make big gains for sticking around may be enough to keep them on the payroll.

Offer company-wide recognition
No matter whether your organization is a small business or a corporation, everyone enjoys a little recognition now and then. On an employee’s work anniversary date, consider sending out a company-wide notification. You can talk with people beforehand in secret to have the celebrant’s coworkers write thank-you’s and share their thoughts on the person’s big day. Then, collect all those comments into a post to share on an internal blog or to circulate via email. Many people are surprised to learn how much their colleagues and bosses enjoy their assistance and like working with them.

Deck out their desk
Consider transforming your employees’ desks an ode to their hard work on their anniversary. Stash a large cake surrounded by congratulations cards on the desk. Add crepe paper to the ceiling and throw confetti when the staffer comes in for the day. This entertaining little joke will show the individual that he or she is appreciated and have the whole office sharing their congrats.