Show Your Contingent Employees You’re Thankful For Them

While expressing your appreciation for your staff is appropriate any time of year, the holiday season is often a time where management focuses on expressing their gratitude. However, when it comes to showing their contingent employees they are thankful for their contributions, many organizational leaders aren’t sure which approaches are best. Depending on how your contingent workforce is managed, these professionals may have priorities that differ from your permanent staff. Certain gifts or rewards may not provide them with the same level of value, so finding options that speak to their needs and preferences is often ideal.

If you aren’t sure how to show your contingent employees you are thankful for them this season, here are some possibilities:

1. Say It, but Be Specific

When in doubt, offering a heartfelt “thank you” can go a long way. However, if you want it to be particularly effective, your message needs to be personal and sincere. For example, merely saying, “Thank you for doing a great job,” doesn’t highlight what the employee contributed as an individual. It doesn’t hold as much meaning because it is a blanket statement that could apply to anyone who was productive. However, if you thank them for a specific action or accomplishment, or meeting a particular goal, you are adding a personal element. This shows you acknowledge their unique contributions or capabilities, injecting more meaning into the declaration. During the holiday season, consider expressing your thanks by adding a handwritten note to a greeting card. That way, not only do they get to hear what you have to say, but they can also keep it.

2. Flexible Scheduling

Flexible scheduling during the holidays is often almost universally appreciated. This allows your employees to maintain their typical number of hours each week, but adjust when the work is done, allowing them to juggle personal and work responsibilities more effectively. If you have the ability to offer flexible scheduling to your contingent employees, consider creating a policy for it this season. You can outline points, like minimum coverage requirements or core work hours, to ensure the company’s needs are met while giving them the ability to shift their schedule within those parameters.

3. Free Food

Another option that is appreciated by nearly everyone is a free meal. A catered lunch is often fairly easy to organize and can be hosted on-site, adding a level of convenience. Just make sure you provide a wide range of potential entries, including a few options that accommodate common dietary restrictions, such as a gluten-free dish and a vegetarian meal. Additionally, consider blocking out time during the day, so everyone can participate together, giving them a chance to enjoy the food when it’s at its freshest and allowing employees to turn the event into a social occasion as well.

4. Thoughtful and Inclusive Gifts

When it comes to celebrating the holiday season at work, choosing inclusive gifts for employees can make all the difference in creating a positive and welcoming environment. Thoughtful gifts like personalized items, home essentials, or universal treats show appreciation while ensuring everyone feels valued regardless of their cultural or personal preferences. For contract or contingent staff, practical items like gas cards or meal delivery vouchers may be especially valued. By showing appreciation through small gifts, businesses can strengthen workplace morale and close out the year on a high note.

5. Team-Building Activities

Organizing team-building activities to show appreciation for contract staff is not just a thoughtful gesture—it’s a powerful way to foster stronger connections within your workforce. When contract employees feel recognized and included, it boosts morale and creates a sense of belonging, reinforcing the idea that they are a valued part of the team. These activities encourage collaboration and strengthen bonds across all levels of your organization, helping build trust and mutual respect. Whether it’s through a fun activity, cooking competition, or games, shared experiences break down barriers and leave lasting positive impressions. By investing time in these efforts, you not only show gratitude for your contract staff’s hard work but also create a more united, productive workforce.

6. Celebrate Milestones

The end of the year is a great time to recognize individual and team milestones. Whether it’s a record-breaking sales quarter or a project completed under tough deadlines, celebrate accomplishments publicly. Consider hosting a small awards ceremony, presenting certificates of achievement, or giving special shout-outs during a holiday event. This not only makes your contingent employees feel appreciated but also motivates them to strive for continued success. Take time to highlight their unique contributions and thank them for their dedication, talent, and hard work throughout the year.

7. Charity Giving

Get into the holiday spirit by involving your employees in a charitable activity. You could donate to a cause in their name, organize a volunteer day, or arrange a team donation drive. Not only does this show your appreciation for their hard work, but it also contributes to a greater cause and brings everyone together in the spirit of giving. This is especially meaningful during the holiday season when many people are looking for ways to give back and make a positive impact in their communities. By involving your contingent employees in these efforts, you demonstrate that they are an integral part of your organization’s values and culture.

Let’s Work Together

Ultimately, showing appreciation for your contingent employees is about finding ways to recognize their hard work and contributions in a personal and thoughtful manner. This holiday season, consider incorporating some of these ideas into your celebration plans and make sure that your contingent staff feels valued and appreciated for all that they do. By doing so, you can create a positive work environment where everyone feels valued and motivated to continue delivering their best work. So don’t wait until the end of the year to show your appreciation; make it a regular practice. View our services to see how we can help you better manage your contingent staff.