Why Acknowledging Your Team Matters Every Day, Not Just Sometimes

As leaders and practice owners, we know our teams are our greatest asset. We rely on them every day to deliver amazing experiences for patients, uphold our values, and build the culture that makes our office special and sets us apart. But how often do we truly acknowledge the people who make it all possible by showing up? We know doctors want to do fun things and acknowledge the team, and sometimes it’s just not knowing what to do.

Whether it’s a national holiday, a quirky “random” day, a work anniversary, or a simple personal milestone, taking time to recognize your team matters more than many leaders realize. It doesn’t need to be elaborate or expensive, but it does need to be consistent and sincere.

Here’s why:

Appreciation Boosts Engagement and Productivity

Recognition isn’t just “nice to have” it’s a driver of performance and engagement.

• According to Forbes, employees who receive recognition at least monthly report 2.5 times greater belonging and show higher engagement and productivity than those who don’t.
• Harvard Business Review research found that 78% of respondents believe employee recognition positively impacts retention, meaning when people feel seen, they stay.
• Other industry research shows that when recognition aligns with company values, employee engagement and happiness can increase dramatically.

Recognition makes people feel valued. When someone feels valued, they’re more motivated to go above and beyond — not just for a bonus or a perk, but because they genuinely feel seen and appreciated.

Recognition Strengthens Culture and Retention

Celebrating milestones isn’t just about cakes and cards; it’s about creating culture continuity.

• Data from Gallup and Workhuman showed that employees receiving high-quality recognition were 45% less likely to leave their jobs over two years.
• Other studies suggest that employees who feel valued are significantly more likely to stay long-term, adding years to their tenure and reducing turnover costs.

The message is clear: consistent appreciation builds loyalty. And in today’s competitive labor market, retaining good people matters just as much as finding them.

Recognizing “Random” Days Keeps Appreciation Fresh

National holidays and traditional celebrations (like Employee Appreciation Day) are great, but random fun days give you more opportunities to connect. Unexpected shout-outs can add extra pep to your team’s step!

Simple, spontaneous recognition, a handwritten note on “Compliment Your Mirror Day,” a fun token on “Random Acts of Kindness Day,” or a team shoutout on “National High Five Day” keeps appreciation surprising and joyful. These moments make every day work feel more meaningful.

Personal celebrations allow you to honor the person, not just the role.

• According to a recent study, 91.8% of employees enjoy celebrating coworkers’ birthdays at work, and most say recognition from employers increases morale and retention.
• Celebrating work anniversaries or “workiversaries” reinforces belonging and reminds employees that their long-term contributions matter, improving connection to the team.

Even small acknowledgments, a card, a team note, or a moment of public appreciation, can strengthen relationships and create positive associations with your culture. Be sure you’re doing it for all team members, not just some.

Appreciation Doesn’t Have to Cost Money

One of the best parts about employee recognition is that the most impactful appreciation often costs nothing. A sincere word of thanks, a note left on someone’s desk, or a shoutout at huddle can be just as meaningful, if not more so, than an expensive gift.

Research shows that personalized and frequent recognition has the greatest impact on motivation and engagement.

Recognition shouldn’t be an annual event. It should be part of your daily leadership rhythm.

Whether it’s celebrating a marquee holiday, marking someone’s milestone, or using a random day to brighten someone’s afternoon, acknowledging your team translates into:

• Higher engagement
• Better retention
• A stronger culture
• More productivity

And most importantly, a place where people feel seen, valued, and appreciated every day.

If you’re unsure where to start with growing or improving your company culture, feel free to contact our dental practice consultants at Bryant Consultants for advice and tips. Please call our office at (877) 768-4799 or contact us online to schedule your consultation today.