December 24, 2018

Your employees have been working tirelessly for the company the whole year. They are a significant part of the reason you’ve enjoyed such a successful year. As the year draws to a close, it’s only fair to show some gratitude for the sacrifices they’ve made in helping you grow your vacation rental management business.

Wondering how to show them appreciation? The following are seven easy ideas to consider:

1. Send Out a Personal Note

It takes just a few minutes to write a personal note, but the impact of these notes can everlasting. Remember that blanket messages are out of the equation. In each note, be sure to thank that employee for their individual contributions during the year and over their entire time at the company. Don’t forget to mention one or two specific highlights that you’re particularly proud of.

2. Hand Out Some Cash

Holidays might be fun and jolly, but they’re also often laden with financial challenges that your employees might not readily share with you. Every good boss knows this. That makes cash gifts one of the best ways to say “thank you” to your committed team members. Be sure to distribute the money fairly and discreetly though. A few $20 bills in an envelope works like magic.

3. Give Out Year-End Bonuses

Year-end bonuses are a common way to reward employees. You set a target and, if those targets are met, give out a pre-determined bonus to each member of the team. This strategy also helps in driving workplace motivation. A word of advice though – it’s much better if everyone gets something. Rewarding others and ignoring the rest doesn’t send a good message.

4. Consider Physical Gifts

Another good option is actual gifts. In many industries, you’ll find management giving employees laptops, TVs, and other electronics. Some also give away mattresses and Arian Huffington, CEO of the Huffington Post, used to give out sweaters though she later changed to pajamas. Vacation rental property managers can consider items like t-shirts, cookware, and tech gadgets, but keep it something practical.

5. Support a Good Cause

You can never go wrong with a donation to a charitable course. When you touch the lives of the disadvantaged, your employee’s perception of you instantly changes. They’ll feel more connected to you and the company. It is, however, important to share the decision with them before giving out the donation. Let them be part of the process.

6. Recognize Heroic Contributions

Over the year, it’s likely that a few employees went beyond their normal duties to provide services that significantly benefited the company. For instance, there could be an employee who went out and personally acquired new vacation rental properties for the company. Or, perhaps one of the employees went out of their way to meet a troubled guest and resolve an issue that might have landed the company in trouble. Such acts must be openly recognized and publicly praised.

7. Throw an End-of-Year Party

It doesn’t have to be a fancy party. Even a dinner at a favorite local restaurant is a rewarding experience for you and your staff. The most important thing is to sit together as a team, share a good moment, and just unwind. Experts do recommend cooking the food on your own or as a team because it brings the team even closer.