They’re the Radar O’Reilly of your business. The person who knows what you need, even before you do. The one who keeps track of the day-to-day so you can focus on running the business. Some call them administrative professions, others call them assistant, coordinator or secretary. But whatever the title, they are vital to your success. That’s why it’s important to use Administrative Professionals Day (April 22) as a special opportunity to recognize their contribution. Take a look at these ideas to mark the holiday (and beyond).

To be successful, recognition needs to be more than a one-day event. So think of Administrative Professionals Day as part of an ongoing effort. The two key messages you want to give throughout the year is “I recognize your contribution” and “I appreciate it.” Select from these ideas to help you deliver results.

Write A Note

As simple as it seems, a well-crafted note can go a long way toward recognizing your admin. It’s OK to start with a commercial greeting card but include a handwritten message inside. Notes can be read over and over, so they have a longer-lasting impact.

Start with a general thanks (here are some starters if you’re stuck). But don’t stop there, give details about something they did. For example, highlight the results they achieved on a specific project, share a compliment from a customer or coworker, or tell how they successfully troubleshot a problem. It doesn’t have to be a Pulitzer Prize winner, it just needs to be authentic.

You can also pair this with verbal recognition, perhaps as part of a team meeting where others can add their own message. But be careful, not everyone is comfortable with public recognition. Consider the person before attempting this.

Invest In Their Future

Show how much you value them by investing in their professional development. Give them the opportunity to attend a workshop, enroll in an online class, join a professional networking group or head up a new project. If you’re not sure which is best, ask them. Together, you can develop a plan.

Not only does this idea recognize their achievements, but it also positions them to make even greater contributions. That’s good for your business.

Two-Hours Back

Has your admin ever stayed late to work on a project? Recognize that over-and-above performance by giving them a certificate for two hours of their life back. They can redeem it by leaving two hours early or coming in two hours late one day. 

They’ll appreciate the time off to run their own errands or relax with a friend over coffee. Small businesses don’t always run on a 9-to-5 schedule so this certificate demonstrates your flexibility to help them achieve a better work-life balance.

Upgrade Their Work Station

Many admins spend a big portion of their day at the work station. So make that time more enjoyable by looking for ways to enhance it. It’s a message that can last long beyond Administrative Professionals Day.

It might be something to make their job easier, like a software upgrade, an ergonomic chair or noise-canceling headphones. Or it could be something that’s just for fun, like a Himalayan salt lamp, a wobble-head of their favorite celebrity or joke-of-the-day desk calendar. When in doubt, ask them first.

Make a Donation

Consider making a donation to your admin’s favorite non-profit organization. Maybe it’s to their child’s school or sports league.

It can be a cash or in-kind donation. For example, a sporting goods store could donate gear. But you can also make it a team effort by performing a service project at the organization. One business helped to repaint the school’s logo in the gym.

Use Administrative Professionals Day as a jumping-off point to recognize one of your business’ most valuable assets. Start with these ideas and extend their impact year round.