Small Changes, BIG Results

This month we’re focusing on small changes and insights that can make a big difference in your team and your leadership. Since we’re just past the American Thanksgiving holiday, we’re going to start the series with appreciation and recognition.

20,000 U.S. workers were surveyed by the Boston Consulting Group and said that the #1 reason they enjoyed coming to work was “feeling appreciated.” Conversely, research shows that the major cause of employees leaving their jobs is because of the lack of appreciation from their bosses.

• Small change >>> Increase the amount of appreciation you express to everyone around you.

• Big results >>> Increased engagement, commitment and retention

“When someone comes along who genuinely thanks us, we will follow that person a very long way.” – Alan Loy McGinnis

CAUTION:
A significant number of leaders we’ve talked to believe that as long as people are doing their jobs, they don’t need to say thank you. After all, they are doing what they are paid to do.

Get over yourself! Sincere praise and appreciation lights up the brain in the same places that a monetary reward does. People do more of what they are recognized for, so when you are only calling people out for how they screwed up…what will you get more of?

You don’t have to spend money when you appreciate, just be authentic. People have a BS meter running that will detect insincere appreciation statements. Be specific in your statements because it shows you put time into thinking about why you appreciate the person which will increase its positive impact. Just saying “you’re awesome” is nice, but it’s insufficient.

“No one who achieves success does so without acknowledging the help of others. The wise and confident acknowledge this help with gratitude.” – Alfred North Whitehead