10 Ways to Show Appreciation for Your Awesome Boss

The hard work of bosses often goes unrecognized. These 10 thoughtful ways to express appreciation will make sure that's corrected before a working relationship ends and someone retires or moves to a different job, and might help make things even better in the workplace right now. Though valid appreciation should be showed year-round, October provides an obvious opportunity: National Boss' Day is Oct. 16.

Going over the boss' head is almost always a bad idea. But when the boss deserves recognition, consider reaching out to their boss with an email detailing the specific things they do to make the job better.

The difficulty and stress of a boss' job will often depend on the quality of communication from employees. So show respect by offering direct and honest feedback day-to-day. It will make life easier for everyone.

The boss has a life outside the office, so why not encourage enjoyment of it by buying tickets to an upcoming event? Whether it's theater, sports, or music, the well-earned break will be appreciated.

Great bosses go above and beyond. Do the same by offering up what's universally valuable: time. Consider staying late or offering to lend a hand on a project that would free up their time.

Showing appreciation for bosses publicly can help them feel like hard work isn't going unnoticed. But context is key: Get bosses the recognition they deserve without making it about you by making sure comments are focused appropriately.

Is the boss passionate about a particular cause? Show gratitude while helping others by pitching in for a donation in their name toward a cause they finds significant.

Being specific when expressing gratitude communicates a real understanding of a boss' value. Think about the particular things the boss has done to make a job better, and point these out.

Whether it's a potluck lunch in the office or a meal at a restaurant, it makes for a nice change of pace from day-to-day workplace interactions to treat the boss to lunch. Is there any better reward than a good meal?

Chances are you know a bit about a boss' interests outside of work. Whether it's marathon running or shredding the guitar, consider pitching in with co-workers to buy the boss a gift that supports those hobbies.

Is there any simple change to implement that makes a boss' day-to-day job run a bit more smoothly? If so, consider taking the initiative to make the tweak. It'll not only show appreciation, but that you have a solid understanding of the company and her role in it.