When it comes to workforce retention, happy employees are engaged employees.
Lately, the PPR team has seen some super creative and inspiring ways to boost employee morale and show appreciation by creating meaningful connections between employees and the communities they live and work in!
When individuals feel valued and connected to their communities, they are more likely to stay, grow, and contribute in powerful ways. Here are some ideas we’ve been loving:
Local Gift Cards: Does your community have a local gift card program for Main Street or downtown businesses? Giving local gift cards is a great way to simultaneously show your employees just how much you appreciate their time and talents while encouraging them to support
Kayla in her Maryland gear!
and engage with local businesses!
Community Welcome Baskets: When PPR’s Social Media Coordinator, Kayla Sherry, started with us last year, our team pulled together a Maryland-themed basket to welcome the Pennsylvania native to her new home! The PPR team had fun curating Maryland-themed items, food, and more from local businesses that represented our state.
Pulling together a simple and impactful welcome or “thank you” basket can be a great way to support local and create a connection with a new employee. What unique offerings would you use to welcome someone to your community?
Downtown and Main Street Discounts: It’s so much easier to say “yes” to an after-work shopping trip when you know you’re getting a deal. If you’re part of an economic development organization, suggest to businesses that they offer discounts to people who live or work in downtown areas. These discounts can encourage workers, and especially commuters, to explore the community outside of work hours and maybe even find their new favorite hangout.
Passes to Local Attractions: What are the popular attractions in your community? Purchasing a season pass to local athletic events, recreational destinations, vineyards, and other attractions can help businesses and EDOs offer a special way for employees to maintain a work-life balance and embrace the offerings of the area!
PPR participated again in the United Way of Frederick, Maryland’s “Stuff the Bus” fundraiser that collects much-needed school supplies for Frederick County students.
Start or Participate in a Community “Give Back” Day: Is your business passionate about a local mission? Setting aside a workday to bring your employees together and give back to the community at a local non-profit or fundraiser. Whether that’s participating in charity events, hosting a drive, or cleaning a local park, giving back to the community can build employee’s sense of pride in their town and strengthen ties between coworkers.
Did these ideas spark any ideas? Have you seen other community-driven employee appreciation initiatives? We’d love to hear them!
Coming up with creative workforce retention strategies can be daunting. Let PPR Strategies help you brainstorm. Join our mailing list for more inspiration delivered directly to your inbox!
