We all remember that one really amazing boss who made a difference in our lives—who showed strong leadership, support, and compassion. (You have had one of these bosses, right?) When it’s your turn to lead, it’s awesome to think you can be this boss your employees remember with fondness.

To become the kind of boss who fosters loyalty, productivity, and employee happiness, try these small but meaningful management gestures:

• Learn about your team. Talk to your employees! Find out what they like to do outside the office: the Netflix shows they watch, the activities they enjoy with friends and family, the places they travel. A Zoom happy hour or short one-on-ones can get this done for those still working at home. Check in regularly to learn about your team, and follow up on the information they share. It may help you remember if you keep notes of your conversations. If your employee’s new puppy was chewing up the house, ask how training is going. If your employee recently took a vacation, ask about the trip. Even a small but regular effort will show that you care about your employees on a personal level, and will also work to humanize you.
• Send goodies. A box of bagels, a catered lunch, a carafe of the chichi coffee everyone likes—go ahead and splurge on those little surprises that make your team happy. If you’re working from home, consider sending small e-gift cards for coffee or lunch. Who doesn’t love unexpected rewards, especially if they’re tasty?
• Say thanks. Employees love to feel appreciated! Appreciation is one of the most powerful tools in your workplace arsenal, as appreciated employees are great for the company; they are happier, more productive, and they stay longer. Get creative with your online options (e-cards, e-gift cards, that Zoom happy hour again) and have fun with your celebrations of recognition!
• Keep your “door” open. Being the boss keeps you busy, especially now many of us are juggling work and home together. But it’s important to let your employees know you’re never too busy to hear their concerns or suggestions, or to make sure they have the support they need to do their jobs. Working apart doesn’t mean working alone. Not only does this create a more calm and collaborative work environment, but it builds trust and respect.
• Be flexible. Nobody likes a micromanaging taskmaster, even though it may be hard to let go when your employees are working where you can’t see them. Set goals and check-ins, but trust them to get the job done unless you have reason to believe otherwise. If an employee needs to go offline early for an appointment or other obligation, try saying, “Yes, of course.” If an employee needs to call out sick, tell them to feel better soon. This also builds trust and respect between you and your employees, and will make it easier for employees to approach you about other things.

You don’t have to make grand gestures to make a difference in your employees’ lives and in how they think of you as their boss. You’ve worked hard to get where you are, so you might as well do a great job and become the boss they will remember!