Weekly "What's UUUUp?" in Business Thought Blog - Recognition - Can we afford not to?

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"Am I Seen? The Transformative Power of a Simple 'Thank You' in the Workplace"

Cost £0 - Return of Investment £unmeasurable

The Story of Tom, Sarah, and the Magic of “Please” and “Thank You”

Tom was a senior developer at a bustling software company. He was efficient, reliable, and always ready to tackle the toughest coding challenges. Despite his hard work, Tom often felt unappreciated. His manager, Sarah, was focused on deadlines and results, rarely taking a moment to acknowledge the efforts behind the success. 🫣

One day, Sarah attended a leadership workshop where the importance of recognition was emphasized. She learned that simple words like "please" and "thank you" could significantly impact an employee’s morale and motivation. Intrigued by the simplicity and cost-effectiveness of this approach, Sarah decided to implement it immediately. 🧐

The next morning, Sarah approached Tom with a genuine smile. 😊 "Tom, could you please help the team with the new feature deployment today? Your expertise is invaluable," she asked. Later that day, she stopped by his desk again, "Thank you for your hard work on the deployment. Your attention to detail made all the difference."

Tom was surprised. The simple, heartfelt words from Sarah made him feel recognized and appreciated. He felt a renewed sense of purpose and motivation. This small change in Sarah’s approach had a big impact on Tom’s performance and happiness at work. 🤗

The Neuroscience of Recognition

Recognition is a fundamental human need but yet one that's missed so often in the workplace at all levels of the hierarchy.

When someone receives genuine acknowledgment, it triggers the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and satisfaction. This chemical reaction boosts mood, motivation, and productivity.

Employees feeling seen and heard

On the other hand, the lack of recognition can activate the brain's threat response, leading to stress and disengagement. 😤

Feeling unappreciated can reduce cognitive resources, hampering both individual, productivity and team performance.

The Benefits of Recognition

Aspect	Employee Benefits	Leader Benefits	Business Benefits
Physical	Reduced stress, improved health, increased energy levels	Healthier team dynamics, reduced conflict	Lower absenteeism, reduced healthcare costs
Emotional	Increased job satisfaction, enhanced self-esteem, greater emotional resilience	Improved morale, stronger leader-employee relationships	Higher employee retention, better workplace culture
Practical	Enhanced productivity, greater engagement, improved performance	More effective team, higher quality of work	Increased profitability, greater innovation, competitive advantage

So can we afford not to recognise ?🧐

Two words that take a little awareness and observation with no cost could single handily solve:

• Talent Retention and Attraction

• Team Synergy and Stability

• Brand Reputation

• Increased Business Profit Margins

no brainer

Let's Find Out How People Want to Be Recognised

Recognising people in the way they prefer is crucial. Here are some steps to uncover these preferences:

1. Ask Directly: 🫶Have open conversations with your team members about how they like to be recognised. Some may prefer public acknowledgment, while others might appreciate a private thank-you note. Take the time to have those exchangies to find out what recognition looks like through their lense.

2. Observation: Pay attention to how individuals respond to different forms of recognition. Notice what makes them light up or feel embarrassed. Body language is unappologetically honest! 🤭

3. Surveys and Feedback Forms: Distribute surveys or feedback forms that allow employees to express their recognition preferences anonymously. This is only effective if the environment is non judgemental and non consequential to promote open and honest feedback! 😇

4. Regular Check-ins: Use regular one-on-one meetings to discuss and understand individual preferences and adjust your approach accordingly. That cuppa and a chat to check in and follow up how they are, is unmeasuarbly effective! ☕️

High Five

This Week's "What's UUUUP?" Challenge: The Power of Please and Thank You

1. Identify: Think of one team member whose work has significantly contributed to a recent project. Make a note of their specific contributions.

2. Ask and Thank: Approach this team member and politely ask for their help or input on an upcoming task, using the word "please." Later, thank them sincerely for their contributions, specifying what you appreciate about their work.

3. Reflect: Observe any changes in their mood, engagement, and performance over the next week. Take notes on the impact.

4. Share: At the end of the week, please share your experiences with the team during a meeting. I would also like to here from you in the comments! Discuss the importance of recognition and how it positively impacts everyone.

Appreciate you reading my blog

Conclusion

Recognition is a powerful, resourceful, necessary and free tool that can transform the workplace. 🆓

Simple words like "please" and "thank you" can make a significant difference in how employees feel about their work and their contributions. 🫶

By taking the time to acknowledge efforts sincerely and specifically, leaders can ensure that every team member knows their work is seen and valued. ⏱️

This week, let's all strive to create a culture of appreciation and recognition in our workplace.

What will your next interaction with an employee look like?

• I will think about their contribution & genuinely thank them
• I will attention to the impact my words have on them.

“Recognition is the most powerful currency you can give to someone in the workplace"

Thank you all for your time to read this

Truly grateful

Coach Sue

Thank you & Please leave me your thoughts in comments