Your Money & Business

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Celebrate Your Team: The Art of Gratitude in the Workplace
December 2023

By Dr. Jenipher D. Cornelius

Towards the end of the year, leaders and business owners start thinking about how to show their teams and employees appreciation. The end of the year signifies several things in business, and leaders can look back over everything that has been accomplished and start to plan for how they will show their appreciation. However, appreciation should not just be considered at the end of the year, it should be top of mind for leaders all the time. Appreciation can happen in many ways; through gifts, verbal kudos, written notes, time off, monetary bonuses, or a combination of any of these.
 
How should leaders show their appreciation? Well, it’s much more than the suggestions previously listed; it needs to come from a genuine place. I call this authentic gratitude. Authentic gratitude refers to a genuine and heartfelt appreciation for someone's actions, contributions, or qualities. It goes beyond politeness or superficial expressions of thanks. It reflects a deep and sincere recognition of the value, effort, or positive impact an individual or group has had on the organization, or on you personally.

​Celebrating your team is more than just an annual staff party. It’s a way to express gratitude for their hard work, dedication, and the unique skills they bring to the table. Gratitude in the workplace isn’t just a nicety – it’s a powerful tool that can improve morale, productivity, and ultimately your bottom line as a business owner. It’s a win-win situation for both the employees and your business.
 
Here are five ways to express your authentic gratitude that employees will appreciate because it goes beyond the parties and gift cards and focuses on deep appreciation year-round: 

"Gratitude in the workplace isn’t just a nicety – it’s a powerful tool ​that can improve morale, productivity, and ultimately your bottom line as a business owner. It’s a win-win situation for both the employees and your business."  ~J.D.C.

1. Personalized Thank Yous: A one-size-fits-all approach won't cut it when showing gratitude. Take the time to offer personalized thank-you notes or messages to team members. Address their unique contributions and qualities. Personalization demonstrates you've taken the time to understand and appreciate everyone as individuals.
2. Invest in Professional Development: One of the most authentic ways to celebrate your team is by investing in their professional development. Supporting their growth and learning is a long-term strategy to demonstrate your gratitude. This investment not only enhances their skills but also makes them feel valued and committed to the company's success.
3. Flexibility and Work-Life Balance: Work-life balance is more critical than ever in today’s workforce. Show your gratitude by offering flexibility in working hours or remote work options if available and desired. Acknowledging that your employees have lives outside of work demonstrates your understanding and appreciation of their well-being.
4. Gratitude in Tough Times: Celebrating your team isn't reserved for the good times alone. During difficult periods, recognizing your team's resilience and determination can make a significant impact. In challenging times, the authenticity of your appreciation shines even brighter.
5. Show Empathy: Authentic gratitude extends beyond the workplace. Showing empathy for personal challenges or difficult life situations demonstrates you value your employees as whole individuals, not just workers. A simple "Is there anything I can do to support you during this time?" goes a long way.

While this list is not exhaustive, by adopting all, or even some of these practices, you can create a workplace where your team feels valued, supported and inspired to give their best each day. In return, your business will thrive with a committed and motivated team by your side. As we talk about authentic gratitude, it’s essential to not only know “what to do,” but “how to do it.” The following six attributes are key characteristics of authentic gratitude:
 

1. Sincerity: Honest interactions without any hidden motives.
2. Respect: At its core, authentic gratitude is delivered with respect, acknowledging their worth as individuals.
3. Consistency: This is not limited to certain times of the year, but is consistent throughout, continuing to build deep, meaningful relationships.
4. Action: Provides support, recognition, or assistance to the recipient.
5. Reciprocity: It often leads to a desire to reciprocate or pay it forward, as authentic gratitude tends to inspire positive actions in return.
6. Specific: Recognize specific actions, qualities, or contributions that make a difference. No one-size-fits-all generalities.

 
In the workplace and personal life, authentic gratitude can have a profound impact on relationships, motivation, and overall well-being. It fosters a positive and supportive atmosphere, encouraging individuals to continue their positive behaviors and contributions. When we express genuine gratitude, we not only acknowledge the value and contributions of others but also create a positive and uplifting environment. Authentic gratitude fosters deeper connections, inspires continued acts of kindness, and strengthens the bonds of trust between individuals and within teams. It is a reminder that small acts of appreciation can lead to profound changes, making the world a better place one heartfelt "thank you" at a time. 

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Dr. Jenipher D. Cornelius is a change management and leadership development consultant. She brings years of expertise to help businesses adapt and thrive, while also shaping future leaders as an adjunct professor in higher education. With a doctorate in strategic leadership, her insights are grounded in both academia and real-world experience. She is a contributor for Sanctuary in the areas of business leadership, career development and finance.