Sometimes we don’t think about our bosses or what they go through in order to keep us working and our wages paid. We frequently imagine them as slave drivers or opponents who have excessive expectations of what we can do in a day.
But do we ever think about how hard they work to obtain new clients, keep old ones, and make sure everything runs smoothly? Most of the time, Boss Appreciation Day reminds us that it’s not all flowers at the top of the food chain, so be sure to appreciate your boss for everything they do!
When Will National Boss Appreciation Day 2023 Take Place?
Every year on October 16, National Boss Day is observed, though some choose to honor it on the next working day if October 16 occurs on a weekend.
History of National Boss’s Day
National Boss’s Day, also known as Bosses Day or National Boss Day, is a secular festival that debuted in 1958. Patricia Bays Haroski was working as a secretary for State Farm Insurance Company in Deerfield, Illinois when she registered “National Boss’s Day” with the US Chamber of Commerce. She chose October 16th since it was her father’s birthday, and he was also her boss at the time! Otto Kerner, the governor of Illinois, officially declared Boss’s Day in 1962. Hallmark Cards added Boss’s Day cards to their collection in 1979.
Showing Appreciation On National Boss Day
Even though it may appear to be a simple concept, National Boss’s Day may put some pressure on employees regarding office etiquette, but it’s vital to remember that this is a joyful and celebratory occasion.
How should you express your appreciation to your boss? Do you need to buy a gift? What kinds of presents are acceptable? An employee’s concerns about the event can be overwhelming. Let’s look at some appropriate methods to honor a boss who makes you feel valued at work. The following are some general gifts that every boss will appreciate:
- Make a cake or cookies.
- Give them a bag of their preferred coffee or tea leaves.
- Give them a “Thanks a Latte” gift basket, which includes a cup, coffee, and a gift card to their favorite coffee shop.
Because they are professional and impersonal while maintaining the boundaries of a working relationship, these are safe and appropriate alternatives for the workplace. You may be able to choose a more personalized gift for your boss if you have a more comfortable relationship with them and frequently discuss their hobbies or interests outside of the job, such as:
- A gift certificate to a favorite store
- The book they’ve been talking about reading
- You previously recommended a TV show box set to them.
- If they have a green thumb, a desk plant for their office
Read Also: Top 21+ Ideas For National Boss Day Celebrations
If giving a personal gift to your boss is daunting or uncomfortable for you, perhaps because you don’t know them well or have a close relationship with them, consider gathering everyone in the company to come up with something together. You can do the following as a group:
- Sign an appreciation card as a group.
- Make a thank-you video that includes messages from each department.
- Everyone contributes $5 to a larger gift.
- Plan a group outing, such as a picnic lunch or a game night.
- On National Boss’s Day, throw a lunchtime potluck at the office.
Employees in medium- to large-sized organizations with several divisions and supervisors can plan an award night in which each boss is recognized for one of their “best” attributes. This strategy engages everyone in the office and ensures that no supervisor or manager feels underappreciated. These awards may have unique categories, such as:
- Chattiest Boss Funniest Boss
- The boss is most likely in a meeting.
- The Cleanest Workplace Boss
- The Boss Who Has the Most Photographs in Their Office
- Most Caffeinated Boss Best-Dressed Boss
Keep them light and entertaining, but avoid rewards that border on disrespect. Also, avoid making comments about people’s appearance that cannot be modified, such as “Best Smile.” Drawing attention to individuals’s appearances in front of a crowd is bad workplace etiquette and may make others uncomfortable, especially if you’re highlighting a characteristic they’re self-conscious about.
National Boss Day Messages: A Chance to Show Your Appreciation
Boss’s Day was created with the objective of enhancing employee-boss relationships. It allows employees to demonstrate appreciation for their managers and supervisors, particularly those who go above and beyond in their activities toward employees throughout the year.
When you choose a greeting card with a motivating Boss’s Day card message or a boss appreciation quotation for your company’s middle managers, you’ll be giving them a boost and letting them know you appreciate all their hard work throughout the year.
Choosing the proper unique message to include in your greeting card might be tricky. After you’ve found the perfect card for your boss, check out these Happy Boss’s Day sentiments you may write inside.
#1. Formal Messages
Here are some formal messages to include in boss’s day cards:
“Wishing you a happy boss’s day, with great appreciation for everything you do.”
“Thank you for always challenging me to improve and grow.”
“Your leadership and mentoring are invaluable. I appreciate your assistance with my professional advancement.”
“Once a year isn’t enough to express how much our team appreciates you every day.”
“Thanks for everything you do for us.”
#2. Informal Messages
Here are some ideas for informal messages to include in Boss’s Day cards:
“If someone has to be the boss of me, I’m glad it’s you!”
“Thanks for being our fearless leader and helping us through this crazy year.”
“I can’t imagine having anyone else as a boss.” Thank you for everything you do.”
“Being our boss can’t be easy, but you have made it look that way.”
“This company has many advantages over other employers but having you as the boss is the best one!”
#3. Team Messages
Here are some examples of executive team messaging to managers and leaders:
“You’ve been fantastic through changes and challenges.” Thank you for your grace and empathy in managing your staff and our organization.”
“The way you keep your team aligned, focused, and engaged sets a great example for the whole company.”
“Happy Boss’s Day to someone who lives the mission and vision of our company and always goes the extra mile.”
“I appreciate you going above and beyond to care for our employees. Your guidance is much valued.”
“Thanks for all that you do to keep this company running!”
Leave It To The Professionals.
Bosses should consider approaching Human Resources and delegating all responsibilities of National Boss’s Day to them. HR officials can educate employees on what is appropriate, offer gifts on the firm’s behalf to deliver to the heads of each department and supervise a sanctioned company luncheon.
By lightening the strain on already overworked personnel, everyone enjoys the day and feels more at ease, while also enhancing vital connections inside the firm.
Tips On What To Do On Boss Appreciation Day
Not everyone will be excited about showering the boss with gifts. Not to sound cynical, but relationships may be difficult and unhealthy. It would be strange to leave flowers on their desk in such an instance, though an olive branch would be good. Don’t give them an olive branch.
On the other hand, no one wants to appear to be cozying up to the decision-maker. As an employee, Boss’ Day might be difficult, but it doesn’t have to be:
#1. Don’t overthink a gift; keep it simple.
A card is sincere and expresses everything that needs to be said without going overboard. Flowers, on the other hand, appear extravagant and may put the boss in a bind.
#2. Use humor as a shield
A funny gift is always a good kind of defense. Because your wit and humor outweigh everything else, you won’t be called the boss’ favorite for the wrong reasons. Who knew whoopie cushions were created specifically for Boss’ Day?
#3. Say it aloud
You don’t want to buy them a gift, even if it’s a joke? That’s true, but keep in mind that deeds speak louder than words. According to research, high achievers recognize their role in relationship maintenance. Pulling your weight is as simple as saying, “Happy Boss’ Day, boss.” The holiday’s title does 25% of the job!
#4. Let HR handle it
Disregard everything you’ve read about keeping relationships and being a greater person—that’s what HR is for! Joking aside, gifts on Boss’ Day may appear arrogant. By involving HR in the process, you may keep the boss happy without poking your head over the parapet.
Why is Boss Appreciation Day Worthwhile?
It’s not unexpected that some people believe it’s a croc and should be banned. Okay, “some” is deceptive! As luxurious as the concept appears to be, it is well worth the effort for employees. Don’t forget that becoming close to the person who makes decisions might have a big impact on your career. And if you don’t care what other people think, that’s even better!
Boss’s Day is mostly about showing appreciation and keeping the office peaceful. Workers frequently forget that people at the top of the corporate ladder are human beings, not faceless robots. They’d want to be a part of the team, but it’s not the right time. It’s okay to remind your boss that you appreciate the hardship of their work on Boss’ Day.
It’s never a terrible idea to encourage a day of drinking coffee and eating cake at work!
If you’re reading this, bosses, give your employees a raise!
What Should a Boss Expect on National Boss’s Day?
You may be wondering what to do as a boss on National Boss’s Day. Unless you are the CEO, you almost certainly have a boss to congratulate. If not, you can use the day to thank corporate personnel who help you with your work but aren’t your direct reports, such as the administrative staff. Bring in a plate of snacks for a morning or afternoon snack and treat them to a cup of coffee.
On National Boss’s Day, as the boss, you should not anticipate gifts from your employees. Insinuating to your employees that you expect them to spend their hard-earned money on you for simply doing your job is improper and unprofessional. You can accept graciously if they choose to give you a gift or host a celebration because they appreciate everything you do.
It is critical that you maintain your professionalism and objectivity on and after this day. If some employees do not give you a gift while others do, you cannot hold it against them or play favorites in the future. Remember that just because an employee does not offer you a gift does not imply that they do not love working for you or value you. The reality is that you have no idea what your employees’ financial situations are outside of the office, and they may not have the funds to give spontaneous gifts.
On National Boss’s Day, consider using the time to express your appreciation for everything your employees do for you as their boss.
Who Are Some Well-Known Fictitious Bosses?
Managers, supervisors, and owners are all examples of bosses. Consider the following fictional bosses:
- Sam Malone: The bartender from the television show Cheers, also owned the bar.
- Miranda Bailey: Grey’s Anatomy’s general surgeon, tolerated no antics. Despite her harsh exterior, she had a soft spot for particular interns.
- Mr. Burns: Homer Simpson’s boss – was cunning, selfish, and full of hidden agendas.
- M, James Bond’s boss: and the head of MI6, has been played by a number of actors, most recently Dame Judi Dench.
What Films Feature Boss-Employee Relationships?
A few films spring to mind that depict the boss-employee dynamic.
- The Concept
- Prada, The Devil Wears Prada
- 9 to 5 Horrible Bosses
- The Wall Street Journal
- GodFather
- HOW TO BECOME YOUR OWN BOSS: The Ultimate Guide
- Boss vs Leader: What’s the Difference?
- HOW TO ASK YOUR BOSS FOR A RAISE: Effective Tips
- Top 21+ Ideas For National Boss Day Celebrations
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