Thankfulness that stands out this season
The holidays are a natural time to pause and show appreciation for the people who make your business thrive. A simple thank you can make a real difference. These gestures of appreciation can boost morale, improve retention, and build stronger client relationships.
Saying “thank you” doesn’t have to be complicated. It just has to be intentional. Try these creative ways to show appreciation to your team and community that feel memorable and true to your company values.
Spotlight individual contributions
Recognition means more when it’s personal. Instead of a blanket “great job” for team accomplishments throughout the year, mention the specific effort or impact that stood out from every individual. You might thank a team member for helping a coworker meet a deadline, or recognize a client for their collaboration on a successful project launch. Specific details show that you notice their effort and that it matters.
You can also make recognition part of your routine. Create a rotating “thank you spotlight” each week in December, or use your company newsletter or chat channel for team shoutouts. Consistent appreciation builds connection, not just during the holidays, but all year long.
Wherever there is a human being, there is an opportunity for kindness.
Seneca
Give the gift of time
The end of the year is busy for everyone, so offering time instead of things can be one of the most valuable gifts.
Consider closing early before a long weekend, adding a bonus day off, or offering flexible hours so employees can enjoy family traditions. For clients, make their season smoother by delivering work ahead of schedule, simplifying a renewal process, or sharing reminders before deadlines hit.
Giving time back shows that you value balance and well-being, a gesture that leaves a lasting impression on both teams and partners.
Create shared experiences
Connection builds culture. Gather your team for an experience that blends gratitude with togetherness.
A few ideas could include:
- Hosting a casual breakfast or coffee bar in the office for everyone to attend.
- Organizing a volunteer day to support a local nonprofit, as we did across the state for our Day of Kindness.
- Planning a relaxed open house or holiday gathering for staff and partners.
- Creating a “gratitude wall” where employees and clients can leave notes of appreciation.
Moments like these remind people they’re part of something bigger than their to-do list and create memories that last longer than any physical gift.
Choose gifts that mean something
A thoughtful gesture beats an expensive one every time. Gifts that reflect your community or company values are more authentic and heartfelt.
Consider locally sourced items from Maryland businesses, a donation in someone’s honor, or a personalized care package for remote staff. Pair any gift with a short note about why you chose it. Context adds meaning and shows genuine thoughtfulness.
Thoughtful gifting also reinforces your brand values. Choosing local or mission-driven gifts can reflect your company’s commitment to community and connection.
Make kindness part of your culture all year
Gratitude shouldn’t fade when the decorations come down. Build simple habits that keep it alive year-round.
- Start team meetings with a quick appreciation moment.
- Celebrate work anniversaries and milestones.
- Encourage volunteerism or random acts of kindness.
When appreciation becomes part of your culture, it helps create a workplace where people feel seen, valued, and connected.
SECU Kindness Campaign is built on the idea that small acts of appreciation can spark something bigger. When businesses lead with kindness, they build stronger teams, happier clients, and more connected communities.
Gratitude that grows beyond the season
A heartfelt thank you can do a lot for your business. It builds trust, loyalty, and goodwill with employees and clients that last well past the holidays.
As you plan for the season ahead, take time to celebrate the people behind your success. For more inspiration, visit secukindness.org to see how our credit union is spreading kindness across Maryland and how your business can join in. Have an act of kindness you’d like to share? Submit yours today!
And to all SECU members, employees, and partners, thank you for the many ways you make our communities stronger. Your kindness and collaboration remind us what it means to grow together.
