Employee Appreciation Day is sort of like Taco Tuesday—it’s a great idea, most people are into it, and it should happen way more often than it does. So, since the official day is around the corner, here’s some background on what it is, how it started, why it’s important, and what you can be doing to celebrate it this (or any) year.
Employee Appreciation Day takes place this year on Friday, March 4th, 2022. It’s always celebrated on the first Friday in March, though some businesses have chosen to turn it into a whole weeklong celebration (because, like tacos, more is better here).
His book is now an international bestseller, and Employee Appreciation Day has been widely adopted by businesses of all shapes and sizes. (Also, kudos to his publicist who created a worldwide corporate holiday to build buzz around an HR book.)
Well, as Ray Kroc aptly put it: “You’re only as good as the people you hire.” And, assuming you hire really great people, it’s important to keep them happy, engaged, and at their best. Studies show that employee recognition and appreciation are important (and growing) drivers to overall happiness and engagement. So, Employee Appreciation Day has been used as an opportunity for businesses to take a moment to thank their employees, recognize their achievements, and support their well-being.
In the same way Mother’s Day gives all the moms out there a special moment to feel seen, special, and doted on, Employee Appreciation Day provides a moment in time to turn the tables from your typical workflow and highlight the people who make everything possible. You could choose to do this any day (or multiple days or times a year), but putting something on the calendar helps to make sure you stay accountable, and don’t completely forget about it.