We just completed our fourth-annual Hold it for the Holidays competition, and the numbers are in: we had 14 participants, and, of those, 11 succeeded! And, those who did actually lost a combined 36 pounds. Wow! They'll get to split the pool of $390 (more than 35 bucks each—not bad!) and enjoy the satisfaction of their hard work, as well as a bit of relief knowing they don't have to make “lose holiday weight” one of their New Year's resolutions.

Some people just don’t know how to give positive employee feedback. They want to give positive employee feedback, but they go “blank” when trying to be clever, witty or uplifting. The following is a sample list of possible short, positive employee feedback messages that could be handwritten or spoken. Tailor your own personal message to suit the people and performance goals in your organization.

It's hard to fathom another year is in the books—perhaps it’s the lack of snow here in Michigan that has me surprised that 2015 is upon us, or maybe it’s that I just don’t want to admit that I am another year older. Whatever the cause for my surprise, many of us become a bit reflective as we wind down the year and prepare for some much-needed time away—and, we at Baudville, have a great deal to reflect on and be thankful for!

In fact, early this month, we had our very own year-end celebration and let’s just say we like to have a little fun (and games). The best part, however, is the awards we present. That’s right: even people who work for a recognition company get jazzed about getting awards—and, as I often say, it is very much as fun to give as to receive! 

You know what? December is one heck of a Fickle Frances. On the one hand, it wants to be joyful, peaceful, meaningful, and bountiful, but then it turns around and ends up being a whole bunch of other ‘fuls’, including the worst of the worst: stressful. It has been for me, anyway, which is why this monthly post is coming at the end instead of the middle. It’s also why there are only four finds. Who has time to discover fascinating info to share when they’re busy worrying their internal organs into a macraméd plant hanger? Not moi. But I am trying to change and not so easily get my proverbial tinsel in a tangle. 

If you’re like me and looking to make some changes in the new year, whether it’s managing stress, getting healthier, spending less money, or <insert New Year’s Resolution here>, these articles will give you some helpful tips! 

It’s time to put a bow on 2014. As we bring it to a close, let’s take a look at the Top 5 Employee Recognition Blog Posts according to you, our faithful readers!

#1: 6 Ways to Make Your Employee Christmas Gifts Memorable
6 simple ideas to help you present your employee Christmas gifts in a way that will reinforce the value each individual brings to your team and organization.