The Science of Appreciation: Boosting Workplace Happiness

In today’s fast-paced work environment, appreciation isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a game-changer. It builds a positive organizational culture and strengthens the bonds between employees and leaders. Showing appreciation is one of the simplest and most effective ways to demonstrate that you care about your team. Studies have shown that appreciation can significantly boost employee motivation, productivity, and commitment, all without costing a dime.

Busting the Myths About Appreciation

Believe that appreciation must be spoken aloud? Not necessarily! People’s past experiences influence their perspectives, and for some, verbal praise may come across as insincere. This can cause them to be more defensive when receiving compliments. Therefore, it’s crucial to use the right method of communication to ensure employees feel genuinely appreciated and motivated.

Five Key Components of Effective Appreciation

For employees to truly feel appreciated, the communication must be:

1. Individual and Personal: Rather than addressing the group, appreciation should be directed at individuals.
2. In the Recipient’s Language of Appreciation: Use the method that resonates most with the recipient.
3. Specific and Impactful Actions: Tailor actions to what the recipient values.
4. Regular: Appreciation should be ongoing, not just during annual reviews.
5. Genuine and Authentic: Ensure that the appreciation feels sincere

The 5 Languages of Appreciation

Dr. Gary Chapman and Dr. Paul White have identified five languages of appreciation in the workplace: Acts of Service, Quality Time, Words of Affirmation, Tangible Gifts, and Appropriate Physical Touch.??Understanding these languages can help you communicate more effectively with your team.

Acts of Service

Engaging in small acts that will help another person or make their job better, easier, or less stressful

Managers can use Acts of Service by:

• Help employees prioritize tasks.
• Offer assistance or review work.
• Provide clear expectations and resources at the start of projects.
• Re-delegate tasks if possible.

Tip : Understand scope of work! While micromanagement is undesirable, managers need to know what their employees are doing and the effort required. This understanding enables managers to set achievable goals and acknowledge the team’s dedication.

Words of Affirmation

Verbal or written words to affirm, appreciate, and acknowledge other people

I have come across people who do not believe in giving compliments to other employees, and it is rooted in the idea that everyone is paid to get their jobs done. While that is true, the person who values words of affirmation still want to hear or read compliments for a job well done. The words of affirmation show the employee that they are being noticed and appreciated.

Some ways to use this language include:

• Hand-writing thank you notes.
• Verbally recognizing someone in team meetings.
• Sending meaningful group emails to acknowledge hard work.

Tip: Be specific about why someone is doing a great job and how they are appreciated. People want to know why they're doing a great job and how they’re appreciated. Appreciate during meetings or in a group email, if possible. Challenge yourself to dig a little deeper!

Receiving Gifts

Thoughtful gift-giving shows appreciation through tangible items. Demonstrating appreciation through gifts that communicate, “This made me think of you!” The real value is in the thoughtfulness and effort behind the gesture.

Managers can:

• Pick up lunch for the team.
• Forward useful tools and articles.
• Give small gifts during holidays.

Tip: Pay attention to details like personal preferences and needs - such as a particular need or a favourite colour, food, or event. For example, if you know that your co-worker loves to watch IPL match, you can show appreciation to that person by gifting a match ticket to him/her. The others may appreciate more experienced-based gifts such as more time off after working long hours or the ability to work from home.

Quality Time

Offering full, undivided attention

Offering full, undivided attention can make employees feel valued. Managers can demonstrate quality time:

• Schedule regular one-on-one meetings.
• Be available to answer questions and address concerns.
• Set aside time for team-building activities.

Tip : Allow your employees to run your one-on-one’s before going into your own talking points. Listen to their updates, answer their questions, and make sure they’re getting everything they need. The regularity of the meetings often impacts the feeling of support.

Physical Touch

Physical contact is crucial

Physical touch is the most sensitive language to apply in the workplace. In the wake of the #MeToo and #TimesUp movements, everyone needs to observe caution here. When showing appreciation, it would be best if you did not go about rubbing people’s backs or hugging people that don’t want hugs. However, to show appreciation to those who prefer this language of physical touch, your safe bets may be high-fives, fist bumps, or just a proper handshake! ?

However, always be cautious and respectful of personal boundaries.

Tip: If you're uncomfortable physically touching your employees or unsure of how they might react, then play it safe and use one of the other 4 languages above instead.

Finding the Right Language

To determine the best language of appreciation for each employee, consider these questions:

• How does this person treat others?
• What does this person complain about?
• What does this person request most often?

If you’re uncomfortable asking directly, try different approaches and observe responses. Over time, the preferred language will become clear.?Remember, any form of appreciation is better than none.

By understanding and utilizing these five languages of appreciation, you can create a more positive and motivated workplace.

Source: Chapman, G., & White, P. (2011).?The 5 Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace.