PaperDirect Blog PaperDirect Blog

March 23, 2018

Spring Has Sprung! The 7 Best Plants for Your Office Desk

Filed under: Office Fun — Megan Duffy @ 4:21 pm

best plants for office desks

Even though it might not be warm and bright where you are quite yet, it is officially spring! However, while the sun is shining and plants are blooming outside, your drab office space might be stopping you from getting into the spirit of the season.

To help you spring into spring, here’s a list of some of the best plants to keep on your desk to help chase away your winter blues. And don’t worry, if your office doesn’t allow plants, we have a few recommendations for you, too!

Spider Plant

The spider planet is not nearly as scary as it sounds! It’s a hardy little plant that requires very little maintenance. If your office is more of a cubicle than a traditional office, a spider plant might be perfect for your space, because it can grow in partial sun and shade. As a bonus, it’s proven to work as an air detoxifier!

Golden Pothos

NASA noted the golden pothos is another great option to improve air quality – it removes over 70% of air pollutants. It’s also a perfect plant for low-light situations, so if you haven’t made your way to a corner office yet, this plant will do just fine without direct sunlight.

English Ivy

English Ivy is one of the best plants for the office if you’re looking to make your workspace an Instagrammable paradise. English Ivy is a climbing plant that will look oh-so-luxurious draped along your desk or a shelf nearby, and it’s ideal for workspaces with poor circulation.

Snake Plant

A snake plant is perfect if you want a little greenery to liven up your space but don’t want to have deal with a high-maintenance plant. Snake plants can be neglected for weeks, and they’ll still keep the air around you clean. Talk about employee of the month!

Succulents

If you manage to kill every plant you touch, try a succulent! They come in dozens of different varieties and colors and shapes, and as long as you can provide them with adequate sunlight every once in a while, you can forget to water these desert plants for a good long while.

Lemon Balm

Lemon balm plants don’t just add some color to your drab workspace – they also have a comforting lemon scent that is shown in studies to provide a significant mood enhancement. And let’s be honest – we could all use a little pick-me-up during a long work day!

Floral Stationery

If even a low-maintenance plant seems like it’s a little too much work, there are still ways to brighten your office space for spring! Sometimes, the best plants for sprucing up your desk are the kind that are printed on paper in the form of floral stationery. All the color and brightness of a plant with none of the upkeep – that’s what we’d call a win-win!

To find eye-catching floral stationery and other products to help brighten your workspace as we head into spring, browse the options at PaperDirect today!

March 19, 2018

15 Motivational Quotes to Display Around the Office

Filed under: Recognition & Motivation Ideas — Tags: , , — Megan Duffy @ 4:41 pm
office motivational quotes

The ideal office environment is one that promotes harmony, productivity, and feel-good vibes, but it’s not something that happens by chance. A strong company culture, hiring exceptional people who fit into that culture, employee recognition, and job satisfaction all contribute to the mix. A few motivational quotes for the workplace can’t hurt, either. We found 15 quotes that can do the trick, no matter what message you want to convey.  

Quotes for Getting through Difficulties

Work can be filled with challenges, but you can help employees get through the difficulties with the wise words found in the quote below.

Tough times don’t last; tough people do.

Quotes for Getting Workers on the Ball

You may expect a level of sluggishness on Monday mornings, but you’re facing a bigger problem if that sluggishness happens to last all week, every week. We found five fantastic office motivational quotes that can help get workers back on track.

There are only two options: Make progress or make excuses.

A negative mind will never give you a positive life.

Focus on being productive instead of busy. -Tim Ferris

Pretty much anything has merit if you put effort into doing it well.

I’m not here to be average. I’m here to be awesome.

Quotes for Getting Along with Others

Most workforces are made up of a variety of personalities, some of which may not always get along. Disharmony in the workplace can lead to disruptions in productivity, resentments, and constant squabbling. These two quotes can help.

How you make others feel about themselves says a lot about you.

No one can make you feel inferior without your consent. -Eleanor Roosevelt

Quotes for Overall Excellence

If your goal is to spread feelings of success throughout the workplace, these seven office motivational quotes might be just what you’re looking for.

It’s not just about ideas. It’s about making ideas happen. Do it!

Don’t tell people your dreams. Show them.

Don’t stop until you’re proud.

If you can’t stop thinking about it, don’t stop working for it.

A goal without a plan is just a wish.

Great things never come from comfort zones.

If you believe in yourself, anything is possible.

Pick one, pick two, or pick them all to hang strategically around the office. Give your chosen quotes the showplace they deserve by printing them on snazzy stationery and framing them. You can also keep the motivation going with motivational gifts, plaques, and awards, all available at PaperDirect – check out our selection today!

March 15, 2018

16 High-Impact, Low-Cost Employee Appreciation Ideas

Filed under: Employee Recognition Ideas — Megan Duffy @ 4:56 pm

low-cost employee appreciation ideas

If you appreciate your employees and all the hard work they do for you, taking a moment to show gratitude goes a long way. After all, who doesn’t love hearing those two magic words: thank you!

If you’re ready to amp up the employee morale in your office, you can spread kindness and thanks every day of the week with these low-cost employee appreciation ideas and gifts.

Low-cost employee appreciation ideas 

  1. Sweet treat: A morning pastry, gourmet cup of coffee or afternoon chocolate bar will create a smile.
  2. Lapel pin: A little celebratory bling is always a good thing.
  3. Gift card: Declare lunch on you at your employee’s favorite restaurant.
  4. Coffee mug: Fill a novelty insulated mug with tea bags or instant coffee packets.
  5. Set of note cards: Monogrammed thank you notes are adorable and perfect for the wordy person on your staff.
  6. Small trophy: A little award to display proudly on a shelf is sure to express your heartfelt gratitude.
  7. Sticky notes: Small stacks of cute paper is always a fun addition to a busy desk.
  8. Deluxe pen: They’re cozy in the hand and smooth on paper. We all love a quality writing tool!
  9. Desk candle: Add a warm ambiance and gentle fragrance to the colleague’s workspace.
  10. Business card holder: Shiny, classic or whimsical, a new card holder is always a welcome gift.
  11. Handwritten note: Grab fancy stationery, a colorful pen, and write a few positive sentences about your hardworking employee.
  12. Candy jar: Desk decorations should serve a purpose, like feeding that afternoon sweet tooth. Fill a cookie jar with a favorite treat and surprise the recipient!
  13. Mini calendar: Have a small desk calendar made featuring photos of fun office antics snagged from Instagram.
  14. Hand-held game: An old school, mind-bending toy is the perfect office stress reliever and gift!
  15. Decorative lanyard: Present a new way to carry around office ID cards or keys.
  16. Award certificate: Name the good deed and the recipient on a frame-worthy document that can be proudly displayed in the office.

Are you ready to stock up on low-cost employee appreciation gifts? Browse the selection at PaperDirect online, fill your shopping cart and have these goodies sent directly to your office. It’s time to spread some joy!

March 13, 2018

How to Manage Remote Workers and Help Them Feel Included

Filed under: Employee Recognition Ideas — Megan Duffy @ 12:19 pm

how to manage remote workers

Every manager of remote workers can agree that they are a valuable part of your team. However, as much as you appreciate them, it’s easy for them to feel a bit isolated from the main office, especially if the majority of the team is based in one location. Incorporating ways to make your remote employees feel included and appreciated regularly can do wonders for your remote staff’s morale and loyalty.

Here are a few tips on how to manage remote workers, and make them feel like the valued part of the team that they are!

Include them on newsletters

One of the simplest things you can do is loop your remote workers into a weekly or monthly newsletter, which you might already be sending out! Even if every part of the letter isn’t strictly related to your workers, it can be a great way to keep remote workers in the loop about happenings and updates at the main office.

Keep them updated on changes in the company

By the same token, while it might not occur to you to tell your freelancers about changes to the company until it impacts them, keeping your remote workers in the loop can go a long way to making them feel like they’re part of the team. Everybody benefits from honest and open communication, and you’ll likely find that your remote workers are much more engaged when they are consistently updated on changes.

Set measurable goals and recognize workers

Whether your remote workers are handling data, answering phones, writing copy, or any other manner of tasks, you likely have some measurable goals set for each remote worker to meet. However, some employee recognition goes a long way when they meet their goals or far exceed your expectations. Send them a certificate or small gift as a thank you for a job well done.  

Get your remote workers some company swag

Everyone loves free things! If you’re ordering new t-shirts or branded coffee mugs for your team, be sure to send to your remote workers. Getting them some new swag will make them feel included in the company, no matter how far away they are.

Don’t just communicate via email 

We get it — the easiest way to communicate is to shoot somebody a quick email. Not to mention, having things in writing is a great way to look back on tasks when you’re not working in an office. Despite the benefits of email, setting a semi-regular call to check in with your remote workers will establish a much better rapport than communicating via text alone.  Regular phone check-ins will make any freelancer feel more personally attached to and supported by you and your company.

Whether you choose to incorporate one or all of these ideas into your management of remote workers, they’re sure to appreciate your effort to make them a true part of the team. If you plan to send your remote team certificates or other tokens of appreciation, PaperDirect has you covered. Shop our line of recognition products today!

March 9, 2018

Got Writer’s Block? Here’s What to Say in a Wedding Thank You Card

Filed under: Wedding Wording & Etiquette — Megan Duffy @ 10:00 am

what to say in a wedding thank you card

Your wedding left you feeling like a million bucks, but nothing can bring you back to reality more than having writer’s block when writing your wedding thank you cards. Skipping the cards is not an option, as your guests came from miles around to show their support. Bust through the writer’s block with these handy tips outlining what to say in a wedding thank you card.

Overview of What to Say in a Wedding Thank You Card

Before you get down to specifics, a general overview gives you the basic rundown on what to include and what to leave out.

What to Include

  • Thanks for attending your wedding
  • Even more thanks for the wedding gift
  • How you’ll use the gift, if applicable
  • Personal touch by mentioning something about the person
  • Anything positive that’ll put a smile on the recipient’s face

What Not to Include

  • Vaguely referring to the gift
  • The exact amount of money given as a gift
  • That you’ve already returned or exchanged the gift
  • Anything negative that’ll put a grimace on the recipient’s face

Examples of What to Say in a Wedding Thank You Card

Snag a straightforward formula for writing a thank you note by simply going down the list in the “What to Include” section. Your note ends up with about three sentences:

  1. Thanks for attending as well as the gift
  2. How you felt receiving the gift, how you’ll use it
  3. How the gift enhanced your lives, as did the recipient’s presence at your wedding

Example Text for Gift

Dear Lori and Sam,

Thank you for being part of our wedding, as well as for the fabulous wedding gift. John and I are thrilled with the crystal candle holders and have already put them on our mantle. They help make our new home warm and cozy, the same way our hearts felt seeing you on our big day.

Best,

Ellie and John

Example Text for Gift of Money

Dear Lori and Sam,

Thank you for being part of our wedding, as well as for the generous wedding gift. Thanks to you, John and I were able to book a week’s worth of massages on our honeymoon. Your gift left us relaxed and happy, with the same level of happiness we felt seeing you on our big day.

Best,

Ellie and John

Example Text if Guests Were Unable to Attend

Dear Lori and Sam,

Thank you for the magnificent wedding gift. John and I have already put the espresso machine to great use, and we’ll think of you every time we take a sip. We missed you at our wedding, but we look forward to other opportunities to celebrate together in the future.

Best,

Ellie and John

Thank You Card Options

Choosing thank you cards that match your wedding invitations and theme is one option. Another is going for thank you cards that are straightforward yet eye-catching. An attractive and sophisticated design, like bold stripes, can do the job beautifully, as can sending a customized thank you card that features a photo of your wedding on the front.

Whatever style of wedding thank you card you choose, your message inside is what counts the most. These tips can help ensure your message expresses your thanks in a heartfelt way that makes the recipients smile. Shop PaperDirect for all your wedding or other stationary needs.

March 8, 2018

10 Fun Volunteer Appreciation Ideas

Filed under: Recognition & Motivation Ideas — Megan Duffy @ 10:29 am

volunteer appreciation ideas

If your business uses volunteers to get by, it’s crucial that your volunteers feel appreciated. Anybody who is willing and able to donate their time and energy to a cause without receiving anything in return does, in fact, deserve something in return!

There’s no end to the certificates and awards you can use to show a volunteer that you appreciate their time and dedication. If you want to show them a little extra appreciation, one of these fun volunteer appreciation ideas will do the trick!

1. Free breakfast

The best way to start off any celebration is always free food — especially a volunteer recognition award ceremony. It’s small, subtle, and affordable, but coming into the workspace to find a box of donuts and coffee makes your volunteer’s day start off a little brighter.

2. Recognize your volunteers in front of the whole company

Referring to your volunteers by name and talking about their specific contributions to your company or endeavor in front of the whole group is a wonderful way to make sure your volunteers feel valued. Since they’re giving their time away for free, there are few things more encouraging than being recognized for their hard work.

3. Personal letters of appreciation

While public recognition is enough to make most people giddy, a fantastic addition to your volunteer recognition program is making sure each volunteer gets tangible, personal recognition. Whether it’s a card from a boss talking about why that specific volunteer makes a difference, or a letter acknowledging their hard work, you can’t go wrong.

4. A token gift with the company logo

Volunteers can sometimes end up feeling as though they’re playing second fiddle to paid employees, so giving your volunteers a small gift featuring the company logo. A small gift showing off the organization they dedicate their time to can make a volunteer feel like they’re part of the team.

5. Praise them on social media

No matter who you are, we all get excited when someone tags us in something on Facebook or Instagram. Use your company’s social media to post photos of your volunteers in action, and add a note about how much they mean and what great work they do.

6. Free lunch

If your volunteers are working throughout the day, nothing shows your appreciation like a free lunch (and a break from hard work). Whether you spring for pizza or order sandwiches, your volunteers will know that their hard work isn’t going unnoticed.

7. Host an award ceremony

Whether it happens over free lunch, or free breakfast, or at the end of the day, give your volunteers a superlative, emblazoned on an eye-catching certificate! Tell each one what they bring to your company or group that’s so special. But if you’re going to do this…

8. Make sure they have time away from their responsibilities

If your volunteers are often hard at work, make sure that they have time to sit back and appreciate being appreciated. Nothing can take the fun out of a fun company gathering like having to run out in the middle of a speech about how great you are to answer a phone. Make sure your volunteers can relax and enjoy being recognized!

9. Plan a social outing

If celebrating in the office isn’t possible — or you’d rather do something else — invite your volunteers to an event outside of the office. Have a company picnic or just get everybody together for some fun, social drinks after work so that your volunteers know that they’re part of the family.

10. Ask your volunteers about their experience with your company

The best sign of appreciation? Caring about somebody’s opinion. Be sure to sit down with your volunteers and discuss their experiences with your company. Do they feel they’re adequately supported? Do they have a suggestion to improve the effectiveness of certain tasks? If anybody knows how to make volunteers feel happy, supported, and appreciated — it’s the volunteers themselves!

No matter which of these volunteer appreciation ideas you choose, you’ll find your volunteers will be thankful for your acknowledgment of their hard work and will leave ready to help your organization make a difference! For certificates, awards, and more to help show your thanks to your volunteers, shop PaperDirect today.

March 1, 2018

5 Ideas for the Best Employee Appreciation Day Ever

Filed under: Employee Recognition Ideas — Megan Duffy @ 9:00 am

employee appreciation day ideas

If you want to earn the title of Best Boss Ever, highlight this date: March 2 – National Employee Appreciation Day. Celebrate this office holiday to show your hard-working staff how much you appreciate their diligence every day. This day of recognition happens on the first Friday of March each year, so make it a recurring notification on your digital calendar.

Now, let’s get down to business and express our gratitude for the people who make the business shine. Since it’s a Friday, it’s easy to mix up the work day a bit and spoil everyone before the weekend. Try one or two of these ideas for employee appreciation day!

1. Cater a full breakfast

By the end of the week, most employees are pretty tired and likely not enjoying a balanced breakfast before their workday. Send out a memo early in the week that breakfast is on you on Friday! Find a caterer to bring in all the morning favorites including pancakes, eggs, sausage, fresh fruit and gourmet coffee.

2. Plan an off-site adventure

Whether it spans the lunch break or fills the second half of the workday, get out of the office and do something social as a group. Visit the zoo. Go skiing. Walk dogs at the animal shelter. Hike local trails. Go on a sightseeing tour. Try bowling. Take lots of pictures and be sure to post it to your business social media to show that you don’t sit at desks 24/7!

3. Relax the dress code

Instead of business attire, encourage everyone to wear a T-shirt, jersey, or sweatshirt that shows off something they love. It might be a sports team, band, animal, stage performance, college, or brand. Then, offer up cute awards throughout the day for Most Cozy, Coolest Band, Best Team Spirit, Silliest Style, Bright and Bold, and more! Document each one with a photo and sentence or two on the office communication system.

4. Write thank you notes

Supervisors should take a few moments to pen a few words of gratitude to the people in their department. Call out a few positive attributes about each employee or commend them for a job well done on a recent project. Present the handwritten cards with a small token of appreciation, like a candy bar, new coffee mug, or a gift card to a local coffee shop.

5. Start the weekend early

No holiday is complete without a little extra time off! If your business can swing it, make it a half day on Friday. Or, give each employee a half-day award certificate they can use on a day that better fits into their schedule in March. Time away from the office for rest and hobbies makes everyone sharper when it’s time to focus on work tasks!

Are you ready to highlight the achievements and contributions of your employees? Stock up on employee awards and recognition certificates at PaperDirect.

Powered by WordPress