Recognizing and appreciating club employees in personalized, consistent, and inclusive ways is a strategic imperative that drives retention, performance, and member satisfaction in a service-driven industry.
Behind every welcoming smile, perfectly set table, artfully merchandised shop, pristine green, and perfectly executed event is a dedicated team member quietly delivering excellence. For club leaders, appreciating these individuals isn’t just the right thing to do; it’s imperative. In a labor-constrained industry built on personal service, employee recognition drives performance, retention, and member satisfaction.
Step one: Listen. Just like members have unique preferences, so do employees when it comes to feeling valued. Some thrive with public recognition, team meeting shoutouts, or photo features on the breakroom board. Others appreciate a private note, a one-on-one acknowledgment, or professional development opportunities. The goal is relevance. Taking time to understand what resonates with each person builds trust, increases engagement, and encourages longevity.
Turnover in hospitality remains high. According to Gallup, employees who feel appreciated are 56% less likely to look for a new job. For clubs where service continuity defines the member experience, that matters. Recognition isn’t fluff, it’s insurance.
Great employees rarely succeed alone. Spouses, kids, roommates, and families make sacrifices too, especially during peak season. Clubs that acknowledge this see stronger loyalty. Think:
When appreciation becomes part of daily life, not just a quarterly agenda item, it becomes your culture.
When clubs talk about creating a “home away from home” for members, they often forget the team that makes it possible. Appreciation is more than a feel-good gesture; it’s foundational to a high-performing, loyal, and resilient club culture. Invest in it like your reputation depends on it, because it does.