1 Thank personally
Almost every company rewards its employees with a nice Christmas or Sinterklaas gift. But how special is it if you can personalize these gifts? Think of a handwritten message highlighting specific achievements you appreciate. Add a (small) gift that matches the person’s interests or hobbies. By taking the time to consider personal preferences, you show that you truly know and value someone. You demonstrate that your employees are worth your time.
2 Thanks for you, thanks for me
Like the previous idea but want to take it a step further? Enlist the help of your employees. Ask team members to express their gratitude to colleagues through a personal message. Have them highlight each other’s successes, positive traits, or achievements. This way, you collectively show appreciation and build a stronger team. Want to make it fully inclusive? Let employees decide whether they want to attach their name to the message or remain anonymous.
3 Inclusive party
Organize an inclusive, multicultural gathering instead of a traditional Christmas or year-end party. During this event, different cultures and backgrounds take center stage—celebrate your diversity! Invite each employee to share something about personal traditions, cultural holidays, group practices, or anything else they’d like to share. Encourage everyone to contribute to a successful celebration, for example by bringing dishes or snacks that are typical of their culture or community. This not only strengthens team bonds but also shows respect for diversity.
4 Socially inclusive
Show your appreciation not only personally but also publicly. For example, share a thoughtful message or greeting on LinkedIn. Highlight the different skills, talents, and perspectives within your team. The strength of this combination is, of course, diversity. Alone you can go far, but together you go further!
5 Gratitude is freedom
Receiving a gift is nice, but the opportunity to create memories is even better. Give your employees the chance to take a “thank-you day” in the coming year. This could be a day off at a time that is meaningful to your employee(s)—whether it’s for a cultural occasion, a birthday, a day out, or anything else. That’s the beauty of this thank-you day: you acknowledge the different needs and commitments of everyone. This contributes to the inclusive culture that defines your organization.
BONUS!
6 Together for a good cause
Alright, one more! This final thank-you may not directly benefit the individual, but it does for the team and society. Organize a joint activity where your team works together on or for a good cause. This could range from volunteering to a fundraiser for a local initiative. Collaborating toward a shared goal strengthens team spirit while also contributing to the well-being of others. Try to choose a cause that aligns with your team’s shared values and interests. This way, the contribution becomes a meaningful experience for everyone.
Hopefully, we’ve inspired you with a few original ideas. By thinking “out of the box,” you show that you value your employees. You’ve taken the time to reflect on their valuable contributions over the past year. By giving attention in an inclusive way, you collectively contribute to a diverse and inclusive work environment.
