Giving Thanks: The Right Way to Show Appreciation At Work

This month is all about giving thanks!  We very often think or our family at this time, but it’s important to think about your work peers as well! Giving thanks and creating a culture of thankfulness doesn’t need to be done only in November but can be done all year.  The following information highlights the Wall Street Journal’s “As We Work” podcast.

Research on Giving Thanks in the Workplace

Sara Algoe, Ph.D., from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, has conducted extensive research on the impact of positive emotions in the workplace. According to her findings, showing work appreciation can significantly impact employee morale and job satisfaction.

Here are some of her key insights on how to show appreciation effectively:

1. Be specific: When showing appreciation, be specific about what you are thankful for. Instead of simply saying “Thank you,” mention what the person did that made a difference.
2. Timing is crucial: Timing is important when it comes to showing appreciation. Expressing gratitude immediately after a task has been completed can have a greater impact than waiting until later.
3. Show appreciation in a meaningful way to the recipient: Different people have different preferences for how they like to be appreciated. Some may prefer a public shout-out, while others may prefer a private thank you note. Take the time to understand what each person values and show appreciation in a way that resonates with them.
4. Make it a regular practice: Incorporating regular expressions of appreciation into your workplace culture can significantly impact employee morale. Make it a habit to show appreciation regularly and consistently.
5. Lead by example: As a leader, you have the ability to set the tone for the entire organization. Lead by example by showing appreciation to others and encouraging others to do the same.

Actionable Steps to Giving Thanks

Jacob Coite, a scheduler who sent over 2,700 compliments to co-workers, highlights the importance of showing appreciation in the workplace. He believes a positive and supportive work environment can greatly enhance employee engagement, motivation, and overall job satisfaction. Here are some of his insights on how to show appreciation at work:

1. Make it personal: Personalizing your expressions of appreciation can make it even more meaningful to the recipient. Use the person’s name, talk about specific things they’ve done, and ensure they know how much you value their contribution.
2. Use various methods: There is no one-size-fits-all approach to showing appreciation. Mix it up and use different methods such as verbal recognition, written notes, or small gifts. This variety can help to keep things fresh and make it feel more authentic.
3. Celebrate successes: Celebrating successes, both big and small, is a great way to show appreciation. This could be something as simple as acknowledging a job well done or organizing a team lunch to celebrate a major project milestone.
4. Listen and acknowledge: Simply listening and acknowledging your employees’ perspectives can go a long way in making them feel appreciated. Take the time to understand their needs, values and motivations.
5. Create a culture of appreciation: Encourage everyone in the organization to show appreciation and make it a part of the company’s values and culture. This helps to create a positive and supportive work environment where everyone feels valued and respected.

In conclusion, showing appreciation at work is a crucial aspect of employee engagement and motivation. By making it personal, using different methods, celebrating successes, listening and acknowledging, and creating a culture of appreciation, you can create a positive and supportive work environment that benefits everyone.