The Gratitude Effect: Building Engagement, Connection, and ROI Through Workplace Appreciation

Employee appreciation isn’t just a warm-and-fuzzy concept – it’s a business necessity. Snappy’s 2025 Workforce Study proves that gratitude, recognition, and meaningful gifting aren’t just perks; they are powerful tools that boost morale, drive innovation, and positively impact a company’s bottom line. With Employee Appreciation Day on the horizon (March 7), here’s a look into what makes workplace recognition so critical.

‍The Power of ‘Thank You’ (and a Thoughtful Gift)

Employees thrive when they feel seen, valued, and celebrated. Our study of 1,500 U.S. employees found that: 

• 79% of employees said a birthday gift would make them feel appreciated and valued.
• 67% reported that an annual anniversary gift would encourage them to stay in their role longer.
• 40% said appreciation from their direct manager is the most meaningful.
• 85% feel a stronger sense of pride when they wear company-branded swag.

These numbers do not lie – appreciation isn’t just a “nice-to-have.” It’s a game-changer for engagement and recognition. The Big Employee Appreciation Day DisconnectWhile Employee Appreciation Day presents the perfect opportunity to reinforce workplace gratitude, many companies are missing the mark. Our study found that: 

• Only 37% of employees said their company actually celebrates Employee Appreciation Day.
• Yet, 66% of employees said they wish their company recognized the occasion.

That’s a major gap! The message is clear: Employees crave recognition and organizations that don’t provide it risk disengagement and turnover. More Recognition = More Innovation (and a Better Bottom Line)When employees feel appreciated, they perform better. Our study uncovered that motivated employees: 

• 34% engage more deeply with customers and clients.
• 30% become more creative and innovative.
• 17% are more willing to take on new projects.
• 16% are more likely to collaborate with colleagues.

On the flip side, when recognition is absent: 

• 42% of employees report being less productive.
• 30% feel invisible or undervalued.
• 10% cite a lack of recognition as a key factor in disengagement.

Building A Culture of Appreciation That Lasts All Year Long‍

Recognition shouldn’t be a once-a-year thing. Smart organizations build gratitude into their culture with meaningful, ongoing appreciation. Looking to get started? Here are some tips: 

• Celebrate milestones: A thoughtful birthday or anniversary gift goes a long way. 
• Welcome new hires in style: Onboarding gifts set the tone for engagement from day one. 
• Make appreciation personal: Employees value recognition from their direct managers the most. 
• Foster team pride: Branded swag builds a sense of belonging and connection to the overall mission. 

‍A Culture Of Gratitude Pays Off

‍Snappy’s 2025 Workforce Study reinforces a simple truth: When employees feel valued, they are more connected to their company, their teams, and their work. Whether it is Employee Appreciation Day or just a regular Tuesday, taking the time to recognize your team leads to happier employees, a stronger workplace culture, and a healthier bottom line. What is your company doing to show appreciation this year? If you’re looking to make recognition meaningful, gifting is your best bet. Snappy’s here to help. Start sending meaningful gifts and swag today with Snappy.‍

About This Study Snappy’s 2025 Workforce Study surveyed 1,500 employees across industries and demographics to explore how recognition and gifting impact workplace engagement, satisfaction, and performance.