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Gratitude Can Make Your Business and Workplace Flourish!


5 things to consider before you show your gratitude.


The highest ROI management tool I know is one that is available to everyone, costs essentially nothing, and is a proven driver of workplace productivity. That tool is gratitude.

As obvious as this may sound to some, it is oftentimes overlooked, particularly in companies and among teams for whom seemingly no results are good enough and no bar is ever set high enough. Yet, developing a high-performance culture and one that encourages the expression of gratitude shouldn't be at odds. To the contrary, recognition can be an invaluable source of motivation and subsequently inspire people to do their best work.

Looking back on my career, I've seen and experienced this dynamic more times than I can count, and conversely, have witnessed the negative repercussions of managers who take their teams for granted. Here are five things to consider the next time you're inclined to show your appreciation for a job well done:


1. Be thoughtful


Not all thank you’s are created equal. Be thoughtful about the how. Sometimes it's best in person, at the moment. Other times, an email or call might make more sense, especially if the person is remote. A handwritten note can pay huge dividends in many ways as well.


2. Be genuine


More often than not, the words you communicate are not nearly as important as the thought and energy behind them. The person on the receiving end can tell the difference between someone going through the motions and deeply heartfelt appreciation. When it comes to expressing gratitude, always be 100% genuine.


3. Pick your spots


When thinking about when to give thanks, remember The Goldilocks Principle: Compliment someone too often and your words will ultimately ring hollow; don't say thank you enough and your top talent will ultimately feel so under-appreciated you'll potentially face retention issues. However, express appreciation at just the right time and you'll make a huge difference in the way that person thinks about their role and what it means to be a part of your team.


4. Solicit suggestions


This is going to sound very simplistic but just ask your employees. From time to time, remind your directs to mention individuals or teams you may have less direct exposure to, but who they feel are deserving of a special call-out. The further away from headquarters they sit, and the more junior they are, the better. You'll be amazed at how appreciative the people on the receiving end of those calls and emails will be.


5. Learn how to take a compliment


The better you are at receiving a compliment, the more effective you'll be at giving one. The next time someone compliments you on a job well done, try grounding yourself from the feet up, look the person straight in the eye, and let them know how much it means to you. That sense of recognition and connection is what we're all trying to achieve. It's also what ultimately makes the difference between a perfunctory thank you and an expression of gratitude the recipient won't soon forget.


Question: How often do you let people know you appreciate them?


Practical Application: Send one thank you each day this week. Make one an email, do one in person, and handwrite one out as well. Mix it up.


CHECK OUT OUR RECENT PODCAST WITH RICH:

Tom Bronson, the host of the Maximize Business Value podcast, brings in business owner and author of The Gratitude Effect, our guest Rich Cavaness. In this episode, Rich describes a near-death experience that leads to the creation of his book, which covers topics about shifting your mindset, optimizing your outcomes, and boosting emotional well-being. Tom and Rich discuss the impact an attitude of gratitude can have not just on life itself but on business value, including an increase in productivity and help with achieving your goals. We learn about the abundance versus scarcity mentality, the 66-day gratitude challenge, and business owner’s emotional bank accounts; a positive mental attitude and gratitude make deposits while complaining and negativity are withdrawals. Listen to learn about the importance of gratitude in your business all year long!


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Rich Cavaness is best known as a popular author, trainer, and coach in the field of success and personal development. He is a Master in his areas of expertise; teaching the 17 Principles of Success by Napoleon Hill, personal development and training, helping individuals with divorce and marriage issues, and his passion is the Monthly Wisdom Program, which is a monthly group coaching experience partnering with Derrick Sweet, Founder of the Certified Coaches Federation. Rich has authored four books, including The Gratitude Effect, two seminar manuals, and produced the 16 sessions seminar “Living a No Limits Life.” And the 12 session seminar for people struggling with divorce and marriage issues “E5 Marriage Experience.” Rich has a unique and powerful ability to take any topic and make it easy for people to understand and apply to their lives. He teaches people today how to master their lives - physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually, financially, and relationally. Click here to connect with Rich and learn more on his website.

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