They're your team. They all have their individual skills, styles and personalities. They also all have one thing in common. Once a year they all have a birthday. You may not be the type of manager to lead the cubicle choir in a rousing version of "Happy birthday to you", but making the effort to recognize their special day each year can provide a boost to the remaining 363 days. It's what we call the "Birthday Boost" and employee birthday cards have an important part to play.

It's surprising to read that salary is not the primary motivator for employees. Ranking above the almighty dollar is recognition. When a manager makes the effort to recognize an individual employee and let them know they are appreciated, that employee is much more likely to remain loyal to the company than someone who is higher on the pay ladder but never receives personal recognition. Birthdays are a natural and very easy occasion to make an employee feel appreciated.

Take the time to recognize their special day and the positive birthday boost can help energize them and build morale and productivity.

Tapping into the birthday boost doesn't require a hefty investment. A personalized employee birthday card, along with a little cake and ice cream will let your valuable team members feel appreciated. When it comes to the employee birthday card, don't hesitate to get a little creative. You can include a fun personalized message, a photo and of course signatures and messages of goodwill from the whole crew. Why not include a dinner coupon or movie tickets as an added surprise?

It's the little things that count and the simple effort of recognizing employee birthdays is sure to energize and strengthen your important team members and also your entire company.