Employee Appreciation Day is observed in the USA and Canada every first Friday of March. Established in 1995 by Bob Nelson, a board member of the Recognition Professionals International, this secular holiday allows employers to thank their employees for their hard work and dedication throughout the year. Although it is not a public holiday and does not grant a day off, companies often celebrate by providing breakfast, lunch, or snacks, organizing team-building exercises, or hosting office parties. This day emphasizes the importance of appreciating staff, as retaining good employees is often more beneficial than the costs associated with continually training new hires.