Memo to Execs: Just Say Thank You!  It's been eight years since
I kicked off ValoreBooks, and in that time there have been
numerous people who have contributed to our success. From our
inception, I've always tried to find ways to show how much I
appreciate our employees' dedication to the company. In the
early years, bonuses and expensive parties were impossible. So I
went about it the only way I could--by taking a moment to shoot
off a quick email, hand-write a short note, or pop by their
desks to just say thanks.  Our stellar growth of late has
enabled us to do a bit more creative team-building events, such
as company Happy Hours at local dining establishments or a
catered beach picnic. They are by no means elaborate, but
certainly come with some budget planning. The funny thing is
that while these gatherings are directly beneficial to company
morale, I find that my personal "thank yous" are still the best
received recognition initiative I do.  Here's why. At the end of
the day, a person's job satisfaction