Exhibiting Gratitude the Right Way

In the last edition of the “Leadership Shots” newsletter, we covered why gratitude in leadership is transformative, enhancing individual, team, and organizational performance.

Over the weekend you may have pondered if and how you show gratitude and appreciation. As I will show today, there are in fact many ways you can show appreciation…and the nuances matter. Let’s dive in.

Here my advice when it comes to exhibiting gratitude the right way:

1.???? Make Appreciation Personal: Effective leaders acknowledge contributions in a way that resonates with each individual team member. Whether showing appreciation through a handwritten note, a public mention in a team meeting, or a private conversation, the key is to make it personal and sincere. For instance, after a team member successfully completes a challenging project, a leader might write a personalized note commending specific aspects of their work that were particularly impressive or impactful. This gesture ensures the team member feels genuinely valued for their unique efforts and achievements.

2.???? Recognize also in Public: Public acknowledgment of individual or team efforts amplifies the feeling of appreciation and establishes a recognition standard within the organization. This can include shout-outs in meetings or company-wide communications.

3.???? Embrace Small Gestures of Appreciation: True gratitude in leadership doesn't always hinge on grand or formal gestures. It's often the smaller, consistent acts of recognition that resonate deeply. Regular check-ins with team members create a platform for them to share their work and achievements. During these interactions, praising their achievements and providing clear, empathetic feedback is crucial.

4.???? Celebrate the Ones behind the Scenes: Effective leadership is about recognizing not just the star performers but also those who contribute significantly from behind the scenes. These are the individuals who ensure the smooth running of operations, often without the spotlight. They're akin to the stage crew in a theater production, essential yet not always in the limelight. Showing appreciation for these team members, who might be in support roles or remote positions, is crucial. Simple acts, such as sending a personalized thank you note or a thoughtful gift, can make a significant difference in making them feel valued and an integral part of the team's success.

5.???? Focus on Them, Not Yourself: True gratitude and appreciation in leadership shifts the focus from the leader's experiences to the achievements and qualities of the team members. ITo express appreciation effectively, avoid phrases centered on yourself like, “It helped me…” or “You made me feel…” Instead, opt for language that highlights their efforts and impact: “Your actions demonstrate your commitment to excellence…” or “Your dedication to the team's goals is evident and truly appreciated.”

6.???? Foster Professional Development and Growth: A significant way to show appreciation is by investing in your team members' development. Most employees feel highly valued when provided with opportunities for growth. Even when promotions are not immediately available, these opportunities for skill enhancement and career advancement can significantly increase team engagement and job satisfaction.

7.???? Promote Team Involvement in Decision-Making: A key aspect of showing gratitude in leadership is empowering your team members by including them in decision-making processes. By inviting team members to contribute to problem-solving and decision-making, you not only utilize the collective knowledge and experience within the team but also significantly enhance their job satisfaction. It's a meaningful way to demonstrate appreciation for their unique contributions and commitment to the team's objectives.

8.???? Practice Active Listening to Understand, Not Just to Respond

In the realm of leadership, active listening goes beyond merely hearing words; it's a profound expression of respect and gratitude. It's about listening to understand, not just to respond. By fully engaging with team members during conversations, leaders demonstrate that they value their team's input on a deeper level. When leaders also act on what they've heard appropriately, it confirms that the team's insights are not only acknowledged but are instrumental in guiding the leader's actions. This practice strengthens trust, boosts morale, and conveys a powerful message of gratitude for the team's contributions.?

9.???? Appreciate Your Team Members Holistically

True appreciation is about acknowledging the whole person. Celebrating not just the professional milestones but also the personal triumphs and life events of team members conveys a leader's recognition of their full humanity. It's this kind of environment that cultivates true loyalty and motivation, as team members feel wholly seen and appreciated.

10. Lead by Example in Gratitude

Never forget: The most impactful way a leader can cultivate a culture of gratitude is by exemplifying it. ?

In weaving these practices into the very core of your leadership approach, you do much more than express thanks. You build a culture where gratitude is the heartbeat of your team's interactions. You create an environment where each member feels truly seen, heard, and valued—not just for their output but also and especially for their input and who they are as individuals.

Why not try to embrace these strategies, integrate them into your daily leadership practices, and watch as they transform not only your team but also yourself?

Keep aiming high and leading with gratitude and empathy. As David Rajakovich nicely put it:

"There is one skill that all leaders should have, but few practice: empathy!"

I think that this brings this 'Leadership Shot' to a nice end.

Here's to taking another leadership shot.

Patrick Flesner

ABOUT PATRICK FLESNER

Dr. Patrick Flesner is a leadership and executive coach, a former professional handball player in the 1st German League, a published bestselling author of FastScaling and The Leadership House, a TEDx and Keynote Speaker, and a renowned expert in the field of leadership. His diverse background, which includes roles as a partner in prestigious German law firms, a leadership position in a publicly traded company, and as a partner in a venture capital fund, has endowed him with a comprehensive and multifaceted perspective on leadership.

If you are interested in leadership coaching or engaging Patrick as a keynote speaker, please connect and send a message. You can also find more information here.

THE LEADERSHIP HOUSE

Praise for The Leadership House Book by Patrick Flesner

"In this little book, you will find the tools necessary to enhance your leadership journey. Thanks Patrick for giving us such a gift.”

—Howard Behar, former president of Starbucks International

"Great storytelling alongside with the simultaneous communication of facts. In this book, the essentials of leadership are impressively presented in an unusual and memorable setting."

—Gisbert Rühl, former CEO of Kl?ckner & Co SE

"Most leadership books are either too theoretic, esoteric, or complex--or all of the above. The Leadership House stands out. It conveys how to lead effectively, wrapped in an inspiring story full of leadership wisdom and actionable insights. This book is not only fun to read, but makes you learn how to lead with ease. Highly recommended for any leader and all who wish to become one."

—Matthias Heutger, Partner at Porsche Consulting and former Senior Vice President, Global Head of Innovation & Commercial Development at DHL Group

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