For 28 years, I navigated various roles in corporate America. But if there’s one role I would have gladly done for free, it was leading employee engagement activities. I found joy in creating team contests to drive key performance indicators (KPIs), planning events for Customer Service Week, or organizing Employee Appreciation Week. Whether it was assembling goody bags, advocating for bagel Fridays, or planning chili cook-offs, these activities brought a sense of community and energy to the workplace. The love of these things is one of the inspiration of why I love the space we fill in corporate gifting.
I recall a time when a new director joined our department and wanted to organize a holiday party. They were directed to me, and I was eager to help. However, when I introduced myself to him and enthusiastically presented my ideas, the director passively remarked, “There’s always one of those (people) in every office,” a comment that felt dismissive. During my mid-year review, he further added, “It’s great what you do with office morale, but your work is only seen laterally. To advance in your career, your work needs to be visible to those above you, senior leaders". Meaning people in higher titles than me need to notice what I do, and employee engagement isn’t it.
His words stung because they implied that the work I was passionate about, the work that made a company more than just a place to clock in and out, was insignificant in the grand scheme of career growth. I understand that it’s hard to quantify the impact of positive employee engagement, but you can definitely see the consequences when morale is low. In my experience, the work that boosts office morale is not only necessary but also instrumental to a company’s success.
Here’s why:
1. Increased Productivity: Employees who feel appreciated and engaged are more likely to be motivated and productive. Simple gestures like recognition programs, team-building activities, and even casual social events can inspire employees to go above and beyond. They feel a sense of belonging and purpose, which translates into better performance and lower absenteeism. This type of work is generally found employee resource groups (ERGs) which highlights how groups like these are so impactful to companies.
2. Improved Retention Rates: High turnover is costly. Companies spend time and resources hiring and training new employees, only to see them leave if the work environment is uninspiring or stressful. Employee engagement initiatives create a positive atmosphere where people want to stay. They see their company as more than just a job but as a community that values their well-being and contributions.
3. Enhanced Team Collaboration: Engagement activities break down silos and foster collaboration. Whether it’s through friendly competitions, shared meals, or community service projects, employees get to know each other beyond their job titles. This helps build trust and understanding, making it easier to collaborate on projects and solve problems together.
The truth is, the work of boosting office morale may not always show up on a quarterly report, but its effects ripple across an organization.
It’s not just about free bagels or festive holiday parties; it’s about creating an environment where people feel connected, valued, and inspired. While the director may have seen it as a lateral move, I see it as a foundation for success — one that should be celebrated, not underestimated.
Thanks for reading!
Constance
CEO & Founder, Bifties Gifts