Photo by Sincerely Media on Unsplash
"Appreciation is free. Neglect is expensive."
Small signs of recognition that make a big impact in wellbeing
By Samantha Newton, HR Consultant, Ethical Practice Advocate & unapologetic HR Queen
Why This Series Matters
Retention isn't just about pay, policies, or perks. Often, it comes down to something much simpler: whether people feel appreciated. In the wellbeing sector, where employees give so much of themselves emotionally and physically, recognition is the oxygen that keeps them going. Ignore it, and you'll suffocate loyalty fast.
Why Listen to Me?
Because I've walked into too many workplaces where employees felt invisible, and watched the best people leave because of it. I've also helped businesses create simple, cost-free recognition practices that made employees feel valued, and suddenly turnover slowed to a trickle.
"People don't quit when they feel appreciated. They quit when they feel forgotten."
What Happens When It Goes Wrong
A spa I supported had high turnover despite good pay. The problem? Employees felt invisible. Birthdays went unnoticed. Extra effort was expected, not acknowledged. Within a year, three senior therapists left, each saying the same thing in their exit interview: "I just didn't feel valued."
Money alone couldn't fix what appreciation could have prevented.
Photo by Kayl Photo on Unsplash
What Happens When It Goes Right
Contrast that with a small wellbeing studio. They introduced tiny rituals:
- A handwritten note for milestones.
- Monthly "shout-outs" in team meetings.
- An early finish on Fridays once a month.
Cost? Almost nothing. Impact? Employees stayed, morale lifted, and clients noticed the positive energy too.
"Recognition doesn't need a budget line. It needs intention."
Small Signs That Matter
- A personal thank-you for specific actions.
- Flexibility offered as a form of trust.
- Sharing client praise with the whole team.
- Tiny perks: fruit basket, coffee, or free in-house treatments.
Sole Traders, Listen Up
Don't skip this one. If you don't stop to appreciate yourself, you'll burn out. Celebrate small wins, mark milestones, and recognise your own effort. Self-appreciation keeps you in the game.
Photo by Kayl Photo on Unsplash
What to Action Today
- Write one handwritten thank-you note for a team member.
- Share one piece of positive client feedback with your whole team.
- Pick one no-cost perk (like leaving an hour early) to trial this month.
Free Resource
Want a ready-made list of no-cost appreciation ideas?
👉 Email sam@magentacorehrsolutions.co.uk for my 50 Ways to Appreciate Employees Without Spending a Penny.
Summary
Appreciation is the cheapest, most powerful retention strategy you've got. It costs little, but it pays back in loyalty, energy, and client satisfaction. Neglect it, and you'll pay far more in turnover and lost trust.
"Appreciation is the glue that keeps people loyal when money can't."
Photo by Lucy Williams Photography
Let's Get Your House in Order
If you're worried your team feel taken for granted, I can help. Together, we'll design simple, sustainable recognition practices that make your people feel valued — without touching your budget.
Here's what working with me gives you:
✅ A culture where employees feel seen and appreciated
✅ Retention strategies built on human connection, not just money
✅ Confidence that loyalty won't cost you the earth
Book your free 15-min HR SOS call. Because meaningful work needs meaningful protection.
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"Your energy is sacred. So is your team. Guard both."
Main – Photo by Courtney Hedger on Unsplash
About the Author: Samantha Newton
