November is National Gratitude Month and we’re kicking off the month by sharing a list of ways which you can express your gratitude in the workplace!

From enhanced mood, improved productivity, stronger relationships and a happier workforce, gratitude plays an important role in any organization’s success.  According to a study, employees are 50 percent more successful when leaders show gratitude for their efforts. It’s a win-win.  So, here’s some ideas to get your started!

Greet your colleagues when they arrive each morning

This simple gesture shows your colleagues you acknowledge them and helps break down any barriers to communication which is key to any successful relationship.   

Say ‘thank you’ often

It’s that simple.  And take the time to be specific in telling them why you appreciate them at that particular moment. Too often we equate gratitude with gifts, and what people really want, or need is to hear that they are contributing and are valued.

Surprise your team with lunch, coffee, or another treat

Who doesn’t appreciate free food and surprises?!  This 2-in-1 effort goes a long way while not costing a whole lot.   

Be respectful of each other’s time

You may be thinking, of course I respect my colleague’s time.  But do you tell them? Don’t just assume they know, make sure they know by telling them. 

Recognize efforts even when things go wrong

We often know to point out people’s achievements, but don’t forget about doing this also when things don’t go quiet as planned.  In any situation, you can always find something that was done well.  Acknowledging those efforts will help your colleagues move on and overcome the challenges, as opposed to them focusing on what they did wrong.

Unsolicited gratitude

Sending an unexpected quick message that says something like “Thanks for everything you do!” shows people that you are thinking about them and value their contributions. Unsolicited positive feedback can lift someone’s mood, increase motivation, and build loyalty.

Be there to help when they need it

Being there to help someone when they need you is a good way to show gratitude. This gesture shows them that you are appreciative and dependable, which means you both will grow mutual trust.

Write them a note

It’s simple but effective. It shows that you really do care and appreciate their hard work by taking the time to write a personal note.

Implement a ‘Cheers’ system

Create a company-wide system for colleagues to give praise to each other for all to see.  Could be as simple as a bulletin board in the lunchroom, an opportunity at team meetings to “cheers” or a place on your company digital communication platform. 

Offer acts of service

Consider expressing thanks by doing something to help out the people you work with. There are many ways to say thanks with an act of service, such as:

• Offer to do a little extra work so that your colleague can leave early to run an errand or pick up a child from school, etc.
• Give a colleague with car or transportation issues a ride to or from work.
• Write a glowing recommendation for someone who deserves it.
• Be a good listener to someone who needs to vent or wants your feedback on a new idea.

Gratitude is a powerful concept. One of the greatest things about expressing gratitude is that it can be contagious. Meaning, a simple ‘thank you’ can change the way employees interact, feel and perform.   How do you show gratitude in your workplace?  Leave your comments below and share!

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Sources:

https://thriveglobal.com/stories/13-simple-ways-of-expressing-gratitude-at-work/

https://www.benefitexpress.info/blog/gratitude-in-the-workplace

https://chopra.com/articles/5-ways-to-show-gratitude-in-your-workplace