There’s a quote going around the internet that says, “The whole world is short staffed. Be kind to those that showed up.” From restaurant waitstaff to retail cashiers, it seems a large population of the American workforce is on a simultaneous vacation. Without going into the who, why’s and what’s of the current problem, let’s instead evaluate how we can in fact “be kind” to those who are coming to work.

Recently while we were at the National Indian Gaming (NIGA) Show in Las Vegas, we observed a bustling Strip, busy resorts and action-packed casinos. More apparent was the absence of employees both on the casino floor and around the hotel property. Many hotel guests experienced delays in room service deliveries, housekeeping services or longer wait times at the front desk.  

As the above quote echoed in our minds, we were reminded of our employee engagement programs and how these programs are more relevant, more crucial, more powerful than ever before.

The situation with the pandemic is fluid, so guidelines and requirements are frequently changing, and people are emotionally stretched both home and at work. After a year and a half of living through a global health crisis, people are still dealing with lingering childcare issues, mental health struggles, and overall anxiety. In general, there’s a sense of fatigue and overall burn out felt by many. Take all of that and combine it with the stress of working without a full staff of support and having to face impatient, disgruntled customers every day…well…it’s no wonder that insightful statement has made its way around the internet at lightening speed.

Business leaders at casino properties can do their part by recognizing and rewarding staffers who continue to show up every day and give it their all. They can keep them engaged and motivated through tangible gifts of gratitude that remind employees that their contributions matter, and their dedication is appreciated. Moreover, these rewards will inspire staffers to set new goals from themselves and strive for more, as they seek more recognition and higher value rewards.

At its core, the viral phrase, “The whole world is short staffed. Be kind to those that showed up” was meant for consumer consciousness. But business leaders and executives in the casino hotel & resort industry can take the same cue and spread a little kindness to their employees now and in the future with comprehensive employee recognition programs.

Learn more about our award-winning employee programs here: http://rymaxinc.com/solutions/employee-recognition/