Gratitude--Does it Have to Be Genuine?




After years of a global economy where employers were in the driver's seat telling employees 'you are lucky to have a job!', the pendulum is finally swinging back. Employers are searching for ways to attract and keep dedicated employees." For Alison McMahon, an HR specialist and the CEO of TwoFold, the biggest reason employees jump ship is that they're tired of working for lousy bosses"--and a big part of it is feeling appreciated by the boss. CEO's have spent countless dollars to have an expert tell them that expression of gratitude to staff is a critical component to the overall culture of a company and the success of a boss. Companies are instituting planned initiatives on how to make staff feel appreciated--but does it matter if it is not genuine?

I think so! During the honeymoon stage, almost everything works. People feel more connected, more valued and appreciate the little things done for them to express gratitude, but after a while, they know...they know these actions are planned and required, and soon enough they lose their luster. It's intrinsic versus extrinsic motivation. So, how do you show gratitude that is authentic and heartfelt? Like everything else, it begins with a relationship!

 Relationships Matter
 You have to know your people. Take the time to get to know your staff and colleagues. What makes them tick? What are their hobbies? Do they have a family? etc. You may not think you have the time for small talk, but those connections are invaluable--they say "you matter". Build a foundation of positive relationships and watch things blossom!

Celebrate them
Gary Chapman says the there are five emotional love languages and how each individual wants to be celebrated can be different. It does not need to be a ones size fits all approach. It's ok to honor and recognize people in a variety of ways, just make sure that its equitable and that you have communicated the idea of individual recognition is advance. Better yet, let them choose. Have different ways that you celebrate people and let them tell you what how they want to be recognized or celebrated.

Have a Heart
"when you can be anything is this world, be kind!" Appreciating your staff and colleagues means that you understand that there will be off times or emergencies that can impact work. Great bosses understand that people are human and cannot always be "on" 100% of the time. Be understanding and see how you can help. Offer to jump in and take something off of their plate or help in other ways. Practice random act of kindness; you will be amazed at how it spreads.

No "I" in Team
Nothing says team like rolling up your sleeves and jumping in! Great bosses are part of the action--and they take an active part in what the staff is doing. Help a colleague with a project or an idea. Volunteer for social and service events. Team work makes the dream work! Work of any kind can be really challenging or at times mundane. Having others participate with positive energy makes all of the difference in the world.

Be Consistent
A one and done approach will not shape a positive culture. Great organizations are consistent with showing gratitude to their staff and colleagues in numerous ways. While the ways in which they express their gratitude may change--and they should, the best organizations continue to celebrate and honor their staff that sends a message that #youmatter!

"A person who feels appreciated will always do more than expected"

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