The Appreciation Disconnect * What Employees Want

What would boost your engagement at work? The answer is surprisingly different if you’re sitting in the employee’s seat or the manager’s.

In a study developed by OfficeTeam and the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP), the disconnect couldn’t be more pronounced. Administrative professionals cited an “in-person thank you” as their most desired and valued form of recognition, tied with “boss shares achievement with senior management.”

Where’d the managers rank these options? You got it – dead last after promotion, cash and paid time off.

As I’ve said all along, a simple thank you, sincerely and meaningfully given, carries much more weight with staff than cash-based awards.

Managers must not fool themselves however. In another recent study, 56% of managers said they appreciate their employees, but only 23% of staff agreed.

Is there an appreciation disconnect in your workplace? Be sure to take our weekly survey.