Expressing Thanks and Custodian Appreciation
When acknowledging those that play an important role in keeping operations going, this year more so than others, the contributions of custodial staff cannot go unacknowledged. Considered essential workers as they work and do their part in protecting the health and safety of their communities, custodial staffs are helping to keep facilities open, from schools and universities to restaurants offering in-dining experiences.
A recent survey conducted by restroom products manufacturer GP PRO, a division of Georgia-Pacific, shows a widespread change in perception and empathy for cleaning industry workers. The survey found that 56% of respondents said they regard custodians more highly than they did before COVID-19 began impacting the U.S.
At a time of showing thanks, how can you show gratitude and custodian appreciation?
Ways to Show Custodian Appreciation
America has an approximate 4.4 million janitors and domestic workers who are working to combat the spread of coronavirus.* Below are some suggestions on how to show custodian appreciation around the holidays and throughout the year.
#1 Extend a Personal Acknowledgement
Whether it is in person or a written note of thanks, a handwritten note or one-on-one conversation goes a long way. While this may not seem like a grandiose enough gesture given all that they do, a sincere thank you acknowledging the cleaning staff and their contributions can mean a lot. Follows are some samples of thank you messages you could write:
Sample #1:
Dear Facilities Team,
Thank you for your dedication to cleaning and maintaining our building. You may think that no one notices your hard work, but we do – each and every day. The cleanliness and efficiency of the building is a joy for all of us. Keep up the great work!
Sincerely, [Your Name]
Sample #2:
Dear [Janitor’s Name],
I wanted to let you know that your work is truly appreciated. Your dedication to keeping our facility open, healthy and looking great is a very essential part of our business. Without your hard work we could not operate as we do. Thank you so much for all you do.
Sincerely, [Your Name]
Sample #3:
Dear [Janitor’s Name],
Thank you for being flexible with your schedule and working at times that serve the community and company efficiently, especially during this tumultuous year. Your willingness to do so does not go unnoticed. You’re also always quick to answer the call when a situation arises. Your work and dedication are genuinely appreciated.
Sincerely, [Your Name]
#2 Give a Public Accolade
Between social media platforms and email communications, it’s easy enough to highlight the contributions of your facility workers. These channels can reach your larger community and start a conversation around the positive impact that your custodial and maintenance teams have made.
Facility management software provider, AkitaBox, suggested that social media posts are also a great way to get other departments involved with saying “thank you.” To start a conversation on social media, they encourage comments on the posts by posing a question, such as:
- What do you appreciate most about our maintenance team? Leave a comment below.
- Share with us: How has the maintenance team made a positive impact on you?
- Want to give a shout-out to our custodial team? Write a comment below!
- Question: How has our maintenance team made your life easier?
- What is your favorite memory of our custodial workers? Let us know below.
#3 Invest in Staff Safety
As cleaning professionals are employed to assist with more frequent cleaning and disinfection, facilities need to consider how they will protect these workers from harmful germs and contaminants. In addition to PPE and proper social distancing, facilities can consider investing in commercial, no contact cleaning tools that help keep a desirable distance between infectious surfaces and cleaning staff. These may include: commercial litter & debris removal tools; contactless desk, table and surface cleaning equipment; and telescopic and extendable poles for window cleaning and more. Not only do these tools keep custodial staff away from contaminants, but they also offer a more ergonomic way of cleaning that reduces physical discomfort and strain while simplifying their tasks at hand.
From floor cleaning to window washing, modern cleaning tools help custodial staff perform their jobs more effectively and faster, which is helpful as we’re finding that routine cleanings are increasing in frequency.
Thank You to Cleaning Staff!
The Unger team wants to thank all the facility and cleaning staff that has worked throughout the pandemic to keep our communities operating and as healthy as possible. Working with facility managers, building service contractors and cleaning staff daily, we know that while many things have been put on hold, you have kept going alongside other essential workers.
If we can help you evaluate alternative cleaning equipment to help keep your custodial staff safer and healthier, please contact us or schedule a consultation to learn more about our commercial cleaning products.