Five Ways to Thank Your Contractors

Great Contractor Gifts

In the small business world, the relationships we develop are almost as important as our skills and experience.

As part of running a small business, you probably regularly deal with contractors and freelancers who help you with the day-to-day of your organisation. Maybe you’ve got them building your website, writing your content, photographing your products, managing your books or even acting as your virtual assistant.

A study conducted by Harvard Business Review found that contractors often feel undervalued and lack a sense of belonging in the organisations they work with – a sentiment that is backed up in many other studies and anecdotal data.

So, if you love what your contractors do, let them know. When wrapping up a major project or at milestones throughout your working relationship, showing appreciation beyond simply paying an invoice on time goes a long way to creating strong working relationships.

And if you go out of your way to thank your contractors, they’ll go out of their way to help you when you need it.

Here are just a few easy ways you can show appreciation to a freelancer or contractor.

Send contractor gifts

One of the best ways to show your gratitude to your contractors is by sending them a thoughtful gift at the completion of a project or at Christmas.

It can be as simple as a handwritten note via snail mail or as luxe as a fancy cocktail kit for them to toast to a successful project. You could also send a basket of their favourite snacks or something related to their hobbies, otherwise gift cards are a great option if you’re less sure of what they like.

A thoughtful gift is not only a way to show your appreciation but also a way to build a strong relationship with your contractors.

It shows that you value their hard work and dedication and that you are willing to go the extra mile to make them happy. They’ll remember that next time you need a hand with an urgent job.

Give them a referral

As a small business owner, you likely have a network of contacts that you can refer to your freelancers and contractors. Referring them to other people who need their services is an excellent way to show your appreciation and support their business.

When referring contractors, make sure to mention their skills and experience and how they have helped you in the past. Make sure the person you refer them to mentions your name when they get in touch, so the freelancer knows who referred them.

Referring contractors to other people is also a great way to support the small business community. It can help create a cycle of support and growth, where everyone benefits from each other’s successes.

Invite them to events

Inviting your clients and contractors to events is another way to show your appreciation and build a strong relationship with them. You can invite them to networking events, product launches, or even social gatherings like the office Christmas party.

Events are an excellent way to connect with people on a personal level and create a bond beyond the business relationship. It can also help them feel like they are part of your community and increase their loyalty to your business.

Offer them a discount

Depending on what kind of business you run, you could offer your freelancers a discount on their next purchase or booking as a thank you.

Even if they don’t end up using it, this gesture can be a great way to show appreciation, as well as encouraging them to refer other people to your business.

When offering a discount or bonus, make sure to communicate the terms clearly and make it easy for them to redeem the offer.

Give them a shout-out

Giving your freelancer credit or a mention on social media or your website is another way to show your appreciation. Social media is a powerful tool for businesses, and giving someone a shout-out can help increase their exposure and attract more clients to their business.

When giving a shout-out, make sure to mention their name, their business, and how they have helped you. Tag them in the post to make sure they see it and share it with their followers.

At the very least, make sure you pay your freelancers on time, and with a hearty thank you. They’ll appreciate it and you’ll enjoy the benefits of having a happy freelancer on your books.

So, what contractor gifts will you be handing out this year?

Marshall Thurlow

Marshall Thurlow is Director and Founder of Orion Marketing Pty Ltd. He is a digital marketer with expertise in SEO, website design, content marketing and project management. With over 15 years of experience spanning government, not-for-profit and the private sector, he is well equipped to lead teams to success. He is a big proponent of environmental sustainability, critical thinking and progressive issues.