The Lost Art of Saying "Thank you"
Barbie Brewer
Senior HR Executive| Advisor| Speaker| Board Director| Author| Bad Golfer
In the high-octane business world, where metrics and KPIs dominate the landscape, the focus rightfully skews towards results-based performance. Leaders are lauded for driving high performance and achieving stellar results, but there is a crucial element that is often overlooked: recognition of the hard work and effort that goes into achieving those results. The simple yet powerful act of saying "thank you" is becoming a lost art, and its absence can have significant repercussions on team morale and overall performance.
The High Stakes of High Performance
Leaders who consistently deliver high results are undoubtedly valuable assets. They push their teams to achieve and often surpass targets, driving the organization towards its goals. However, this relentless pursuit of performance can sometimes overshadow the importance of acknowledging the efforts of the individuals who make it all possible.
High-performing teams are built on hard work, late nights, and countless problem-solving sessions. These efforts are not always visible in the final results but are the foundation upon which success is built. Recognizing these efforts is not just a matter of good manners; it’s a critical component of effective leadership.
The Power of Recognition
Imagine a high-performance engine running at full throttle without proper maintenance. It may perform exceptionally well for a time, but eventually, the wear and tear will take its toll. Similarly, teams that operate at peak performance without recognition and appreciation will inevitably experience burnout, disengagement, and decreased productivity.
Studies have consistently shown that recognition is a key driver of employee engagement. According to Gallup, employees who do not feel adequately recognized are twice as likely to say they’ll quit in the next year. Conversely, employees who receive regular recognition and praise are more productive, more engaged, and more likely to stay with their organization.
The Simple Act of Saying "Thank You"
Recognition doesn’t have to be elaborate or costly. Often, the most impactful gestures are the simplest. A heartfelt "thank you" can go a long way in making employees feel valued and appreciated. It acknowledges their efforts and reinforces the idea that their hard work is not going unnoticed.
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For leaders, incorporating gratitude into their daily interactions can create a culture of appreciation. This can be done in various ways:
The Ripple Effect
When leaders consistently recognize and appreciate their teams, the effects ripple throughout the organization. Employees feel more valued and motivated, which leads to higher engagement and productivity. This positive environment fosters loyalty and reduces turnover, ultimately contributing to the organization’s long-term success.
Moreover, a culture of appreciation encourages employees to recognize and support each other, creating a collaborative and supportive work environment. This sense of community enhances team cohesion and makes the workplace more enjoyable for everyone.
The Bottom Line of Gratitude
In the quest for high performance and exceptional results, it’s easy to lose sight of the human element. However, the simple act of saying "thank you" can have a profound impact on your team’s morale and productivity. Recognizing the hard work and effort that goes into achieving results is not just a nice-to-have; it’s a critical component of effective leadership.
By making appreciation a regular part of your leadership style, you can create a positive and motivating work environment that drives sustained high performance. So, take a moment to acknowledge the herculean efforts of your team. A little gratitude can go a long way in building a stronger, more successful organization. Thank you for reading.
Experienced Talent Acquisition professional as a line recruiter and TA Manager. Expertise in hands-on full-cycle recruiting for GTM, SW/HW, Semiconductor, DL/ML Scientists, and G&A.
4 个月This is great Barbie. I am not only a huge advocate of the "thank you" but also of the response of "you're welcome " or "my pleasure " rather than "no problem" but that's another article. As I read this article it took me back to a piece I wrote back in 2009 shortly after leaving Cisco. "There are in too many leaders who say, "Why do I need to thank people for doing the job they are supposed to do?" I personally love this question and I answer it with this. ... Ultimately, the work the people on the bottom rungs do make the higher rungs look better, and if they work harder, smarter and are happier, then they'll make those higher rungs look even that much better. So take the time to thank someone every day, not because they are doing the work they are supposed to do, but because you appreciate that they remain committed to doing the work."
This is so important!!! I am forever saying the words “please” and “thank you” go a long way. I once had a leader that would ask me how I could get an employee to do something each time I asked him to do a task when the employee wouldn’t do what he asked or would take forever to do it. My answer was the same thing I said above “please and thank you go a long way.” It was the truth in that situation and so many more. Simple appreciation and recognition matter at all levels of business!
Global Recruiting Leader
5 个月Great reminder, Barbie. You've always been excellent at leading by example in expressing gratitude.