Beyond Appreciation ...

Multiple research showed that when you express gratitude and appreciation towards employees, they tend to show positive interpersonal relationships and this, in turn impacts positively the team dynamics and communication.?Employee appreciation?gives birth to a company culture of kindness, empathy, and motivation.

Working at Marriott International, one doesn’t need to wait for any special occasion or event to express appreciation and say “Thank You” to an associate. Marriott dedicates one week every year to celebrate this practice and we call it “The Associate Appreciation Week”.

This practice is embedded in the Marriott DNA. Our associates Make us what we are as an International Company.

I strongly believe that well-recognized employees have more drive and determination. Associates develop a deeper connection to the company because they feel they are valued as human beings and that we have their best interests in mind. This encourages employees to increase their efficiency and be more productive; if they feel and believe that the organization cares about them, they will stay invested in the company’s success and will be less likely to leave.

This is a key element to the success of any company. At Marriott International, we have many associates who have been with us for more than 20, 30 and sometimes 40 years within the company.

Appreciation has a positive impact on the employee morale and can also reduce workplace conflict. ?Because employees feel well; they impart positive feelings onto others, cultivate trust and most importantly create better work relationships on the long run. The spillover effect of gratitude can lead to random acts of kindness or generosity, such as helping out with projects or taking time to recognize other colleagues for their hard work. “Kindness is contagious”

A simple thank you once a week has a great impact on the employee morale. I can relate to a quote by Mother Theresa:

“We know only too well that what we are doing is nothing more than a drop in the ocean.?But if the drop were not there, the ocean would be missing something.”

Allow me to share with you 3 suggestions that can assist in any organization:

1.????Send employees a handwritten thoughtful note: ?A Personalized Thank you note for a job well done has a positive impact.?While most people consider showing an expression of gratitude is a nice gesture, many people struggle to do it. ?“A handwritten note is a great differentiator”.?They show the person you are thanking that you made a sincere effort to acknowledge their act of kindness or generosity.

2.????Share appreciation as a team: Encouraging your employees to recognize each other builds a culture of appreciation and belonging, because they feel understood and valued. This practice should be part of your regular routine.

3.????Publicly express your appreciation: Shining moments deserve public recognition in departmental meeting, general assembly, general session, etc. whether it’s for doing great work or for living out the company culture. ?You can celebrate these employees by announcing their accomplishments to the rest of the team.

The symbol of an associate life at Marriott is demonstrated by the ability to do your best work, begin your purpose, belong to an amazing global team and become the best version of you.

I absolutely feel lucky and fortunate to be part of Marriott International Company where People truly come First.