Published to Newsletter on Mar 01, 2023
Theresa L. Sherman, EOD Consultant
March 3 is Employee Appreciation Day. In recognition, EOD is focusing on gratitude in the workplace. Read our tips below, attend our Lunchtime Learning Series, or attend our EOD Course of the Month to active your best appreciation at work!
Even though we know a simple thank you can be a big motivator, it is something we don’t do enough in the workplace. Though saying thank you shouldn’t be a task on your to-do list, or with ulterior motives, giving genuine, meaningful expressions of gratitude that fit your leadership style will go a long way in creating a positive and productive workplace culture. Here are a few tools to help you show more appreciation at work.
When to Do It
When someone truly impresses you with their performance. A job well done is a powerful reason to say thank you.
When someone delivers tough news or redirecting feedback. Instead of getting angry or frustrated, thank the person for sharing difficult news, or for taking the time to let you know.
When you want to diffuse conflict. If you don’t see eye-to-eye, find something meaningful and say thank you for it.
When your manager or mentor benefits you. Bosses don’t often receive thanks because people are worried about being “suck ups.” If they’ve helped you in a meaningful way, be sure to thank them.
What to Do
Delivering a meaningful thank you doesn’t have to be grandiose. Send an email with a clear explanation of why you are thankful. Example: “Thank you, Rita, for taking the time to meet with the employee while I was busy.”
Select the right time, space, and approach. Celebrations are a great way to start off a team meeting on a positive note. For some employees or some situations, however, a thank you is best done quickly on the spot. Don’t lump a thank you with a negative. Save those for another time.
Create a Staff Recognition Program. Did you know UNM has a policy for establishing a Staff Recognition Program? Encourage your leadership to set up a formalized non-monetary or low-cost staff recognition program with guidance from this policy.
Check out TinyPulse for more small forms of gratitude!
EOD’s mission is to be a partner in designing and delivering customized professional development solutions. Contact us for training, coaching, and facilitation services for your organizational and personal growth at eod@unm.edu.
