Lead with Appreciation

"No one cares how much you know, until they know how much you care." — John C Maxwell

This popular quote forms the basis of this article. We are looking at how to create an environment of creativity and success in our organizations.

There are different aspects to this. The first aspect is looking at the part of leadership. Leaders can not expect what they do not express.

Everytime you fail to appreciate your employees, your value as a leader reduces. Leadership is influence, and influence is built on intentional action.

Nothing motivates employees more than having their leader appreciate their hard work. This of course goes beyond the vague thank you for your hard work.

Did your employee do a particular job well? Take the time to assess exactly what you loved about it, and give specific praise and appreciation. Great leaders intentionally thank their employees.

A life isn't significant except for it's impact on other lives. — Jackie Robinson

As a leader, you are responsible for the lives of everyone in your organization. It is your responsibility to ensure that they receive gratitude for their hard work.

Do not fall victim to the mentality of: that's what you're paid to do. Leaders who operate on that mentality create broken environments that hinder success.

Once you have created an environment of gratitude, it is your employees turn to return gratitude to you. Leadership is often a thankless job.

As employees, it is your responsibility to appreciate the effort your leaders make. Do not resent their position or be afraid of their status. Take the time to say thank you. Here's how:

Examine the tasks your leader is doing well. Give clear-cut praise on how well they are doing. This helps create synergy between you and can even help you get promotions. We love people who appreciate us after all.

Tony, head of the accounts department, was a good manager. He was good at his job, and believed in pushing his team to excel. But, he was poor with giving appreciation.

"It's your job description." was Tony's motto

John wished to build a better rapport with Tony. So he took the initiative of giving Tony specific praise for his efforts. In return, Tony gave John appreciation and helped John get further in his career.

Perhaps the most critical part of creating an environment of creativity and appreciation is the Leader's inner circle. If as a leader, your inner circle is not reaffirming you. It would be wise to cut them off.

There is a lot of responsibility on your plate. It is crucial that you surround yourself with people who appreciate you and not drain you. That is what will help you be the best leader you can be.

For more information on how to be a better leader, ask me about my Leadership training camp.