If you are interested in developing as an appreciative leader, this article is for you. Managers hold the power to influence the team culture of a business. The butterfly effect of team culture spreads to performance, satisfaction, retention, and ultimately- engagement.
Why is it important for leaders to show appreciation? To get to the point. Leaders that show appreciation yield better business results. Without reservation, appreciation unravels good emotions and is a powerful motivator for employee engagement and productivity. Yet, why does appreciation lack in the workplace?
Managers are often the example to follow in a company, they should lead with the values they believe in and set appreciation as a standard interaction between the team. In fact, a study by Gallup showed that the quality of managers accounts for a 70% difference in team engagement.
The 5 good habits of highly appreciative leaders.
1. Connect the individual’s efforts to company objectives.
First, in order to make employees feel like their work efforts are valued, help them paint the bigger picture. Explicitly show employees how their work fills gaps to accomplish the overarching goals of a company. As such employees will feel heard, valued, and a sense of purpose.
The sense of purpose is a huge motivator, and feeds into the natural instinct of every human, to feel growth and value. Therefore, connect their efforts to the goals of a company. By doing so, employees will feel that their efforts are worthy and valued.
2. Listen- actively!
Second, build trust and open communication with employees. Undeniably, the number one ingredient is mutual respect and understanding. As such, listen to their opinions, feedback, and ideas. As a result, you allow employees to express themselves, and gain valuable information from the experts themselves.
3. Recognize the little things.
Third, a great leader will recognize the efforts of their team.
This effort can be big, or small, or even an intention. Regardless, the main point being: the ability for a leader to take the time to appreciate their employee is hugely appreciated. Moreover, it garners employees to repeat the same behaviours in the future.
Additionally, it allows employees to think outside the box, become resourceful and confident in their skills.
4. Feedback is a gift.
Fourth, encourage team collaboration. Talk about problems, ideas, options, and opportunities openly with your team. Remember, you chose your team trusting their expertise. As such, give them a platform to voice their opinions.
That is to say, feedback must be encouraged in two-way communication.
Although feedback can be tough at times, it is nevertheless a tool for growth. As an appreciative leader, allow your team to offer feedback to a problem and nourish radical candor in your workforce ( Side note: I recommend any leader to read radical candor). This being, caring personally for their growth, whilst challenging directly for results.
5. Appreciate.
Appreciation can come in many ways. Whether it is written, verbal or digital, appreciation can make somebody’s day even better.
Well communicated appreciation comes in the form of genuine and honest recognition. As a result, the receiver will feel heard, and empowered by the appreciation.
In order for appreciation to be perceived as genuine, the message should always be intentional and tied to the goal or value of a company.
Appreciation is a value that builds team spirit, performance, and satisfaction. Moreover, not only does the business benefit from engaged employees, but the whole team benefits from boosted team morale and a sense of belonging. Try these 5 habits and become an appreciation leader that sets an example for their team.
