UXL Blog

You’re probably aware of the power of appreciation. It can motivate others, elevate moods, and actually improve employee retention rates. Employees who are recognized for their achievements report increased happiness at work and greater satisfaction with their superiors.

But—believe it or not—there IS a wrong way to express appreciation for your employees. How?

• If the recognition seems forced or insincere
• If the recognition is ubiquitous (EVERYONE gets a gold star!)
• If someone is left out (part of a team is recognized for their achievements, while some are not)
• If the recognition is generic or impersonal (a mass email)
• If the recognition does not suit the individual (some people do not like being called out in front of a group, while others thrive on that type of recognition)

The last thing you want to do is come across as phony, insincere, or misinformed when you’re showing appreciation. How, then, do you, as a leader, demonstrate your true appreciation?

• Be observant and aware (know who is performing above the norm and deserves recognition)
• Regularly check in with your team and get to know them (this will help you understand when someone is personally excelling and how best to recognize that individual)
• Pay attention to the little things
• Focus on both work-related and non-work-related activities (if someone helps out a coworker who just had surgery, that deserves recognition too!)
• When you say thank you or write out a thank you card, mean it. Your sincerity will shine through.
• Be specific. Don’t just say “thanks for a job well done.” Point out specific achievements or contributions.

Employee recognition is important, and it’s crucial to go about it in an authentic, personalized way. Build trust with your team by being sincere, specific, and candid when you give praise. Believe me, people will notice and appreciate your authenticity and effort.

MARGARET SMITH IS A CAREER COACH, AUTHOR, INSIGHTS®DISCOVERY LICENSED PRACTITIONER, FOUNDER OF UXL, AND CO-FOUNDER OF THE TAG TEAM. SHE HOSTS WORKSHOPS FOR PEOPLE WHO NEED CAREER OR PERSONAL GUIDANCE. YOU CAN VISIT HER WEBSITE AT WWW.YOUEXCELNOW.COM

Tags: better thank yous, business coach, career guidance, grateful leader, gratitude and leadership, gratitude at work, sincere thank you, thank you at work, wrong way to say thank you