ADMINISTRATIVE PROFESSIONALS WEEK^SM

Administrative Professionals Week^SM Survey Examines Office Etiquette
Majority of Workers Agree: 86% Want Bosses’ Appreciation

Bosses, take a managerial tip from mother: always say "Thank You." A survey sponsored by the Society of American Florists found that 86 percent of American workers believe that being thanked for a job well done is extremely or very important. But far fewer, 41 percent, say their efforts are acknowledged on a regular basis. The survey findings pose a timely question as Administrative Professionals WeekSM (APW), April 22-28, draws near: Have bosses forgotten the tried and true basics of office etiquette? Or is the lack of appreciation due to lack of time? In today’s hectic workplace expressions of gratitude can be easily overlooked or forgotten. But a simple "Thank You" can go a long way to motivate employees and build loyalty. Administrative Professionals WeekSM offers an ideal opportunity to show appreciation -- and formally reinforce the value of an employee’s contributions.

Tips for Busy Bosses
The Society of American Florists offers this simple guide to help smart managers put the benefits of proper office etiquette to work during APW and year-round:

• Use APW to find out what motivates your staff. Conduct a formal or informal survey asking support staffers what kinds of incentives they value most. This will show your commitment and give you hints on what forms of appreciation they would enjoy during APW.

• Be open and direct. If you’re not sure whether the members of your support staff want to be recognized during APW, just ask them.

• Include everyone on your team. Make APW a time to thank all of your support staff -- from secretaries to assistants to junior managers -- for their contributions.

• Make "thank yous" personal. Whether you’re buying a gift or making lunch reservations, think about the individual. For example, if you’re ordering flowers, ask your florist to create an arrangement that fits the recipient’s personality. Is that person traditional? Outdoorsy? Dramatic?

• Be specific. Tell your support staff exactly what they did that you appreciate.

• Treat APW like a New Year's resolution. Resolve to practice better office etiquette year-round to build your team’s confidence and cohesion. Whether it's celebrated with a gift, flowers, or a group luncheon, APW is an opportunity to formally acknowledge the members of your support staff for their contributions throughout the year and wipe the slate clean of any forgotten thank yous.

• Remember to remember. If jogging your memory is the hardest part of celebrating APW, staff birthdays or employment anniversaries, an online reminder service can provide some high-tech help.

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