Freshen Up Your Appreciation for Your Office Assistant
Where would an executive be without his or her administrative staff? Administrative assistants work tirelessly to organize, plan, and troubleshoot so that the office functions smoothly. They are unsung heroes—a big reason behind the success of a company. It is important that we remember these valuable members of our company.
Over the years, executive have sought to show their appreciation for their support staff. Whether it be during Administrative Assistant week, before Christmas, or any other time of the year, bosses everywhere have seen the need to pay tribute to their staff. As a result, there are a few things that have become the “norm” for gift giving:
1. Flowers. Flowers are nice, but eventually they die. Flowers are nice from time to time, but they should be the exception rather than the rule.
2. Candy. This probably ranks #2 on the “gift-giving?” list. Like flowers, candy doesn’t last long, and dieters may not appreciate the added temptation.
3. Candle. Nothing says impersonal like a candle. Especially from a male executive to a female assistant, what gets communicated is “I know ladies like candles, so here’s one for you.”
4. Office Supplies. Honestly, office supplies? Sad, but it is true, every year assistants receive as “gifts” items that are essential to their job. One must wonder if those bosses also gave their wives a set of jumper cables for their anniversary.
5. Gift Card. This is perhaps the most useful, but it still lacks personality.
Fortunately, there are newer, fresher ways to show your appreciation to your administrative assistant. Here are a few ideas:
1. Handwritten Letter of Thanks. Factory produced thank-you cards are nice, but if you just sign your name and lick the envelope you lose a tremendous opportunity to honor your assistant. When you write out by hand a note of thanks you communicate that you care. There is something uniquely personal about handwriting. Tell your assistant what an asset they are, why you enjoy working with them, and how much you respect them. Be willing to be open with them. Your sincere words of affirmation will energize them in their job.
2. Themed Picture Frame. This is a gift that has lasting power. Get them a picture frame that fits their personality or where they are at in life. If you know they just became a grandparent, get them something themed towards grandparents or grandkids. If they like cats, get them a frame with kittens on it. If they are a sports fanatic, get them a frame with their favorite team. The possibilities are endless. The point is, know your assistant and get them something that is a reflection of who they are.
3. Designer lanyards and id badge holders. office settings require company identification to be kept on your person. Typically employees are issued generic id badge holders and lanyards. However, designer id badge holder or themed lanyards can really bring style to an otherwise functional accessory. If your assistant is female, consider a beaded lanyard. This can be a unique way to purchase your assistant jewelry without getting too personal or crossing any boundaries.
4. Thoughtful Gift Card. Gift cards can be boring, but they don’t have to be. If you know your assistant, you can be intentional about the gift card you give. Has your assistant wanted to take their spouse to that new restaurant? Get them a card to cover the amount of a nice dinner. Does your assistant like to go to sporting events or concerts? Get them a Ticketmaster gift card along with the team or theater’s upcoming schedule. A thoughtful gift card lets them know you care them enough to know about them.
For more tips and information about id badge holders please visit: lanyards
Processing your request, Please wait....
