It Will Take More Than Pizza
Let me start by saying, I love a good theme. I’ve earned the title “Queen of Theme” for a reason—whether it’s Jean’s Day or my legendary SOUPer Bowl luncheons, I’ve always been all about creating fun, engaging perks for my team. But here’s the truth: if you’re relying on pizza parties alone to motivate your team, you’re going to miss the mark.
As leaders, we can’t stop at surface-level perks. Yes, they’re fun, and they boost morale for a moment—but it takes more than that to build a truly engaged, inspired team.
So the secret? These perks work best when they’re part of a bigger strategy—one that goes beyond the occasional treat.
Here’s what I found truly inspired and empowered my team:
1. Ongoing Development: If you want your team to stay engaged, invest in their growth. Encourage them to pursue professional development opportunities, take on stretch assignments, and expand their skills. By investing in your team’s long-term development, you’re not only improving their performance, but you’re also showing them that you’re committed to their success.
2. Authentic Gratitude: This goes beyond a quick "thank you." It’s about showing people that you genuinely value their hard work. That might mean sending a personalized note, publicly acknowledging their contributions, or taking the time to listen to their ideas. Gratitude must be specific and personal to have a real impact.
3. Meaningful Recognition: Celebrating wins—big and small—is a powerful way to boost morale. But real recognition doesn’t just come in the form of trophies or shout-outs. It means understanding what motivates each individual and recognizing them in ways that resonate. For some, it’s public praise. For others, it’s an opportunity to take on a leadership role or a new project.
The Big Picture
It’s about finding balance. The special events and fun perks create moments of joy and camaraderie, but they need to be backed up with authentic gratitude, recognition, and opportunities for growth. When you layer these elements together, you create a workplace where people feel valued, seen, and motivated to bring their best selves to work every day.