Employers are always looking for the “silver bullet” that will keep their workers engaged and motivated. Companies may offer perks such as pizza Fridays, bonuses, or flexible schedules to increase employee satisfaction and reduce turnover.
It’s National Gratitude Month and with Thanksgiving right around the corner, it’s a good time to think about gratitude and explore how building a culture of gratitude can be a powerful way to increase employee satisfaction, improve productivity, and increase loyalty. In a 2012 study by the American Psychological Association, researchers found that 93% of employees “who reported feeling valued said that they are motivated to do their best at work and 88% reported feeling engaged.” Only 21% of employees in this group said they planned to look for a new job in the coming year.
What is a Culture of Gratitude?
A culture of gratitude in the workplace is one where appreciation, recognition, and positive reinforcement are a part of the workday. This looks like managers, leaders, and employees openly expressing appreciation for each other’s work, which creates a positive work environment. In a workplace that centers gratitude, employees don’t simply work for a paycheck — they know they are valued for their contributions, and understand how their work helps the business achieve its broader goals and mission.
But, there’s more to gratitude in the workplace than saying “thank you” once in a while. It’s an intentional practice of recognizing efforts, appreciating each team member’s role, and celebrating accomplishments. When leaders model gratitude, it trickles down, encouraging every employee to contribute to the environment in a positive way.
Benefits of Building a Culture of Gratitude
Building a culture of gratitude in the workplace is good for both employees and the business. When leaders consistently express appreciation, they are demonstrating humility and empathy, which increases trust and respect. This approach fosters open communication, leading to a harmonious and supportive workplace. Employees who feel valued derive a stronger sense of purpose and meaning from their job, which increases motivation and commitment, ultimately leading to higher productivity and reduced turnover.
A gratitude-driven culture increases performance and engagement because employees are motivated to exceed expectations. When employees know that their efforts will be acknowledged, they become more committed and invested in the company’s success.
Ultimately, by reducing turnover and improving productivity, gratitude helps businesses grow and succeed.
How To Express Gratitude to Your Employees
Companies can’t build a culture of gratitude overnight, but there are some steps leaders can take to incorporate gratitude into their company’s DNA. Here are some tips for showing gratitude to employees:
1. Give Specific, Personalized Praise.
Rather than simply saying “great job”, take time to point out specific individual contributions. For example, share how a team member’s attention to detail helped meet a project deadline or how their problem-solving skills resolved a client issue. Specific praise reinforces positive behaviors and lets employees know that you notice and appreciate their strengths.
2. Praise the Little Things.
Employees shouldn’t need to achieve something huge in order to receive praise. Managers can use small achievements and milestones to keep morale high and emphasize the importance of the work completed each day. This can be as simple as recognizing effort during a team meeting or sending an encouraging email.
3. Facilitate Peer Recognition.
Give workers the opportunity to acknowledge each other’s work. You can use a “shout-out” feature or set up a shared platform where employees can recognize each other. Peer recognition creates camaraderie and a stronger sense of community within teams.
4. Don’t Neglect Professional Growth.
Showing gratitude also means supporting employee growth and development. If you want to keep employees loyal and engaged, leaders must provide training, skill development, and job advancement opportunities. When people know that the company cares about their success, they feel valued and inspired to give their best.
5. Listen to Employee Feedback and Take Action.
Thankfulness isn’t just what you say but also how you listen. Ask your employees for feedback on a regular basis and show you care by acting on their feedback. If you respond to their issues and implement their ideas, it shows that you value their input, which builds trust and respect.
6. Time Off & Flexibility.
Sometimes, the most effective way to say “thank you” is to let workers have a break. Flexible work schedules, mental health days, or an afternoon off after they have finished a large project shows you care about their well-being.
7. Team Building Exercises that Focus on Gratitude.
Host teambuilding exercises that emphasize gratitude and appreciation. For example, you could organize a gratitude-themed lunch where employees take turns sharing what they’re grateful for at work. Activities like this help to build a positive team environment and foster a culture of respect.
Creating a culture of gratitude is a powerful strategy that benefits everyone in the workplace. As we celebrate National Gratitude Month and approach Thanksgiving, take a moment to reflect on the power of gratitude and how it can transform your organization. Start implementing the tips above and see how it motivates your team.
Seay Management Consultants Supports Business Growth
Seay Management Consultants, Inc. is a full-service human resource management and labor relations consulting firm that has been operating in Florida since 1966. Our primary goals are to make sure that your business is compliant with all local, state, and federal employment regulations, eliminating any financial exposure in these areas. We also work to develop effective employment policies and procedures that help you hire and retain satisfied, happy, and productive employees. We also provide employers with a reliable point of contact for any HR-related questions, offering prompt and accurate responses via call, email, or text.
