The working environment has changed dramatically throughout the past 18 months or so. Normal working practices have been turned on their head, leaving some people questioning how they can still feel happy at work in an ever-changing environment.
National Gratitude Month is upon us. We’re taking the opportunity to focus on appreciating everything positive in life and work rather than the negative.
It’s a good feeling when someone says thank you and the power of gratitude in the workplace can be hugely significant.
This Wellspace blog will give you easy ways to show gratitude and the benefits it has on your employee’s relationships and engagement.
What Is Gratitude?
Gratitude is being thankful and showing appreciation for what an individual receives, whether tangible or intangible. By practising gratitude, people acknowledge the goodness in their lives.
In the process of practising gratitude or being grateful for our surroundings, it allows us to connect to people, nature or a higher power.
5 Easy Ways To Show Gratitude In The Workplace
Have you ever worked for a company or boss who never seem to value your contributions, no matter what you did, how hard you tried or even how creative and engaged productive you were? If so, you are in good company!
While it is an unpleasant scenario to be in, you’re not alone. Luckily for you, it isn’t a resemblance to yourself, but more in the company and individual.
In my experience, most managers do appreciate their employees and even believe that they regularly show their gratitude and appreciation in meaningful ways. But, unfortunately for the employee, it doesn’t always get effectively communicated.
Here are 5 easy ways to show gratitude in the workplace:
- Greet your employees every morning
- Surprise your team with lunch, coffee, or sweet treats
- Be respectful of each other’s time and personal life
- Recognise efforts even when things go wrong
- Say thank you more often
The Benefits Of Showing Gratitude In The Workplace
While gratitude may not be the most-used word in the workplace, it definitely should not be forgotten. From enhanced mood, improved productivity, boosted employee engagement, stronger relationships and a happier workforce, gratitude plays an important role in organisational success.
Ultimately, gratitude in the workplace can lead to deeper connections to not only each other but to the work you’re doing each day. So, take a moment to stop, say thank you and read our top benefits of gratitude in the workplace.
Gratitude Builds Relationships
Employees have better relationships with their employers when they feel appreciated and valued. Employers who express gratitude toward their employees help create a positive work environment.
Additionally, employees who practice gratitude and express appreciation toward one another will have better social interactions that will help boost employee happiness.
An easy ‘Thank You’ is all it takes, something so small can make someone’s day.
You Become More Resilient With Stress
According to this Labour Force Survey, 17.9 million working days were lost due to work-related stress, depression, or anxiety in 2019/20.
Both you and your team members will have a vision of what your best self would look like in the workplace but, with pressures and negativity within the workplace, it can be challenging to redirect energy.
Being less reactive to potential stress-related situations can easily be digested by practising gratitude. Your full potential could be enabled and managing stress will become an easier task.
This could be incredibly empowering for your teams; reminding them that they are in control of their response to situations and are able – with the right tools – to dig into their own ‘well’ of resilience to cope with adversity.
Creates A Positive Impact On Company Culture
Company culture plays a huge role in employee engagement, retention and hiring the best candidates. Candidates are looking for more than just a job that pays the bills. They want to enjoy their job, company and its culture.
When practising gratitude in the workplace (both personally and encouraging others to do the same) your workforce will be happier, more productive, engaged and hopefully demonstrate employee advocacy to attract new talent and create positive onboarding experiences.
Gratitude is a powerful concept. It goes beyond praise and beyond positive reinforcement to create professional bonds. 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.
Get In Touch
Why not contact us today to see how we can help boost your employee engagement in the workplace. We are Wellbeing Re-imagined. Bring your best team to work and send them home well with our workplace App and training.
Alternatively, for tips, advice or other employees related information visit our news page.
