When Did Employee Appreciation Day Start?
Employee Appreciation Day is observed by companies across a wide range of industries today, but when did Employee Appreciation Day start? Employee Appreciation Day was first celebrated on March 3, 1995. Dr. Bob Nelson collaborated with Workman Publishing to establish an employee appreciation day to remind managers of the importance of thanking employees and building strong relationships between employees and employers.
The first Employee Appreciation Day was part of a celebration surrounding the release of Dr. Nelson’s book, 1,001 Ways to Reward Employees. Almost 30 years later, it continues to be celebrated on the first Friday in March. The day's purpose remains consistent with Dr. Nelson’s initial celebration: it serves as a time for managers to recognize their employees through thoughtful gifts or events and activities to show their appreciation for their contributions.