Five Timeless Ways to Express Gratitude to Your Team
As the holiday season draws near, ushering in festivities like Christmas and Hanukkah, it's worth noting that in certain countries, such as the United States, the celebratory spirit has already commenced with the observance of Thanksgiving Day.
During the time of living in the US, Thanksgiving Day has evolved into one of most cherished holidays for my family and I for numerous reasons. Among them is the practice of gratitude. On this day, we are encouraged to pause and contemplate - who and what we are thankful for. While I regularly reflect on that, doing so on Thanksgiving Day holds a unique significance. The unique aspect of doing this on Thanksgiving Day goes beyond reflecting on gratitude; it also involves sharing with those for whom we are thankful that we appreciate them. I find this practice particularly special and distinctive because, as individuals, we rarely express our gratitude to others. Americas do so on this day, and it’s a meaningful tradition to embrace and learn from. With that being said, on a Thanksgiving Day this year, I spent a significant amount of time contemplating my gratitude and expressing my thanks to those who have had an impact on my life. Among them are individuals who, in addition to personal connections, have significantly influenced my professional journey - who help me grow, support and challenge me, who mentor and guide me.
In my continued reflections, I can't help but observe that as leaders, we often fall short in truly appreciating our team members and the collective efforts of our teams. The landscape of everyday leadership is dynamic, where each decision and action leaves an indelible mark on the team's journey. Amidst the hustle, we sometimes overlook the transformative power of expressing gratitude. It's not merely a form of appreciation; it's a catalyst for fostering a culture of gratitude, engagement, and fulfillment within our teams.
Indeed, showing gratitude to our teams is an art—a potent brushstroke that deserves more attention in our leadership palette. Today, let's embark on a journey through five timeless and effective ways to authentically convey gratitude to your team.
Join me in exploring stories that vividly illustrate the profound impact these expressions of gratitude can have.
1. Personalized Recognition: Imagine Sarah, a dedicated team member who consistently goes above and beyond. Instead of a generic "thank you,", “well done, Sarah!'“, share a specific instance where Sarah's attention to detail turned a challenging project into a triumph. Personalized recognition transforms a routine acknowledgment into a heartfelt tribute, showcasing each member's unique contributions.
2. Thoughtful Gestures: John, a seasoned developer, recently hit a major project milestone. A handwritten note expressing appreciation for his meticulous coding or a gift related to his passion for technology adds a personal touch. Thoughtful gestures go beyond words, leaving a lasting impression on individuals who feel seen and valued.
3. Time and Presence: Meet Alex, a rising star in your team. Despite your demanding schedule, scheduling regular one-on-one meetings with Alex (that you don’t constantly move or cancel) communicates that you prioritize them and their growth. It's not just about managing time; it's about investing time, creating a space for meaningful conversations that resonate beyond the professional realm.
4. Professional Development Opportunities: Consider the impact of investing in Emily's professional growth, a team member who has leadership potential and who expressed to you wanting to steer her career into people management. By sponsoring her attendance at a leadership workshop, you not only enhance her skills but also communicate a commitment to her long-term success. Statistics show that teams with leaders who prioritize professional development experience a 34% higher retention rate.
5. Inclusive Celebrations: Picture a team-wide virtual celebration. As you toast to a successful project completion, every member feels part of the achievement. Research indicates that inclusive work cultures lead to a 21% higher profitability. Shared successes foster a sense of belonging, making gratitude a collective experience. If you don’t have any particular reason to celebrate with your team now (although I would argue there are always some), it’s a Holiday season, so take them out for a Christmas dinner, drinks or some team-building game event.
In conclusion, expressing gratitude is not just a leadership skill; it's an art. It's a practice that, like any art form, requires dedication and continuous refinement. Remember, nothing ever gets easier; it's us who get better. The journey of becoming adept at expressing gratitude starts with a single step, and that step can be taken today.
I've prepared these five ways to provide you with a solid starting point. By infusing these approaches with personal stories and meaningful statistics, you'll begin to craft a tapestry of appreciation that resonates with the hearts and minds of your team. So, let the art of gratitude be a constant evolution,
a journey where your leadership grows alongside the profound impact it has on others. Begin your practice today and witness the transformative power it brings to your leadership journey.
