11 Ways to Practice Random Acts of Kindness on the Farm

We all know how easy it is to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday work on the farm. Crops and livestock need tended to, equipment needs repaired, and that mountain of paperwork sitting on your desk just doesn’t seem to go away. But don’t let these day-to-day tasks stand in your way of showing some extra gratitude to your hardworking employees. To improve moods and boost employee morale, consider practicing these random acts of kindness:

1. Bring Employees Their Favorite Snack – To show a little appreciation to your employees, consider hand delivering their favorite snack to help get them through their next shift. Whether it’s a bag of Cheetos or a pack of gummy worms, the power of food can go a long way.

2. Go Out for Lunch – Speaking of food, why not take an employee or two out for lunch? Hit up the local spot in town and buy the members of your team a free meal. Try not to talk about work during your time together. Instead, ask about their family and interests to really get to know them.

3. Drop Off a Cup of Joe – Caffeine can also be a powerful tool to show a little appreciation. Surprise your employees with a coffee during an early morning shift or drop off an ice-cold soda during a hot afternoon. The unexpected pick-me-up is sure to be a mood booster.

4. Fill Up Their Tank – Having an employee who shows up to work every day in today’s world is a true blessing. Why not recognize that? Treat them with a tank of gas or even a car wash. Hit up your local gas station and consider leaving a gift card on their windshield.

5. Give a Gift Card – While we’re on the topic of gift cards, try picking up a few during your next visit to town. Whether it’s a fast-food restaurant, a grocery store or even Amazon, your employees would certainly appreciate the thoughtful gift.

6. Write a Handwritten Note – The power of saying ‘thank you’ goes a long way. But the power of handwriting a thank-you note goes even further. Take a few moments to jot down a note of appreciation and leave it where your employee will find it. It’s guaranteed to bring a smile to their face.

7. Offer a Helping Hand – Everyone could use a helping hand now and then. Consider lending one to an employee during their next shift. Take the time to understand what their workload looks like and chat about their accomplishments.

8. A Surprise Paid Day Off – While an extra set of hands during your employee’s shift is nice, a surprise day off is a true treat. When time allows, gift a hardworking employee with an extra day off. Be sure to tell them in advance so they can plan something fun!

9. Hand Out Some Gear – Who doesn’t enjoy some free swag? Whether it’s a hat, a t-shirt or a nice water bottle, your employees would certainly appreciate some company gear.

10. Give Specific Compliments – Everyone enjoys a compliment now and then, but a specific praise instead of a generic one is sure to warm the heart. The next time you see one of your employees, consider thanking them for completing a specific task, for working extra hard during a busy week or complementing them on a spiffy new haircut.

11. Brag Them Up – If your employee is okay with standing in the spotlight, take time to brag on them during your next farm meeting. Recognize the hard work that employee has put into your operation and give them some extra credit when credit is due. If your farm has a presence on social media, why not share it online as well? Try posting a picture of your employee and list out some of their accomplishments. The act of appreciation will go a long way!

For more on leadership, read: 

• 5 Traits All Great Farm Leaders Should Possess
• 8 Core Values Bridge the Dynamics of Family and Business
• Out-of-the-Box Tips to Attract and Retain Good Employees