While the COVID pandemic has been difficult for virtually everyone, it’s been especially hard on those healthcare workers who have been on or near the front lines for an extended time.
As we near Thanksgiving, there’s no better time than the present to show thanks and appreciation for your healthcare colleagues. So whether it’s writing a personal note of thanks, posting a shout-out on social media, providing an extra day off, or taking the time to run errands for an overworked team member, giving thanks is good karma for all concerned!
Saying Thank You to Healthcare Workers Can Reduce Burnout
Many healthcare workers experience feelings of burnout, depression, and anxiety – especially as the holidays approach. The nature of the job is to care for people in their most vulnerable state, and this is incredibly difficult when the outcome isn’t always good.
However, a simple expression of gratitude can cause spirits to soar. Recognizing a colleague and showing thanks and appreciation can be a game changer. In fact, healthcare workers who feel appreciated are more motivated to continue delivering the best care possible. It’s been proven that hospital administrators who said “thank you” to their employees found that they worked harder and better as a team.
So here are some ideas to consider this holiday season:
Write a Personalized Thank You Note
Oftentimes, a simple, handwritten thank-you note is just the ticket to brighten someone’s spirits. Let them know you’re thinking about them and appreciate their work and sacrifices. For travelers, a personal expression of gratitude can lift morale during their travel assignment when they’re away from home and perhaps missing loved ones.
Create a Goodie Bag
Consider the small gestures that can bring a smile to a healthcare worker’s face. Getting them a coffee or a few self-care products can help them relax and unwind while at home. These examples of hand-made kits could be the perfect way to say “thanks”:
Run Errands or Bring a Meal
Nothing adds stress more than feeling like there isn’t enough time in the day to get things done. That’s why helping a frazzled co-worker by picking up a few items at the grocery store, taking care of dry cleaning, or preparing a meal for them are great ways to express your appreciation.
Give Some Social Recognition
Online connections have become more important as we’ve had to keep our physical distance. Thanking health workers through a social media post is a great way to publicly give recognition for all that they’ve done. Popular examples include #InThisTogether, #COVIDHeroes, or #MyLRSHealthcareHero. All allow for mentioning individuals or sending broad messages.
Say it with Flowers
It’s easy to coordinate a flower delivery with a local flower shop. Not only are you supporting a small business, but this thoughtful act can brighten up a frontline-workers home and enhance their mood. Positive effects of flowers can last a long time.
i4 Search Group – Recruiting Healthcare Heroes since 2019. We’re a permanent placement recruiting firm specializing in healthcare recruiting across North America. If you’re a nursing, allied health, or any other healthcare professional looking for your next career move, visit our website and see how our experienced team of professionals can help you find a great position in 2021.
