A story of "thank you"
Gratitude. the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness to someone
Last week following a speech I gave, a older man approached me with his wife. He wanted to thank me and offer his compliments. In the speech I shared a story from Afghanistan. He told me he had served in Vietnam. I placed my hand on his shoulder, looked him in the eye and thanked him. He began to cry. I'm not sure he was ever thanked before. Vietnam veterans were not thanked for what they did and I have always considered that a national shame. I wanted to do my part and right the wrong. I told him that what he did mattered. He mattered and his nation was grateful. It was a moving moment for both of us amidst the aftermath of Afghanistan.
People in your care may not give the full devotion of their life to a task or project as a soldier might, but their commitment, passion, and sacrifice means the same. Our job as leaders is to recognize this commitment. It is not always easy to see. That is why we must understand the significance of the task or project to a person and how much of their energy and passion was given on its behalf. It may have been one of the hardest things they have done in their lives and their family may have been affected by the stress they carried while completing it.
A simple thank you, is the best way to recognize this commitment and sacrifice. Thanking their family has the same effect. You can go the extra mile by recognizing the devotion they gave to a task or project and the difficulties they encountered in its completion. Praise and recognition, part of my "List of 6 Desires of People in the Workplace," in my leadership book It's Personal, Not Personnel, releases a shot of dopamine and serotonin in people which fosters a healthy and productive work environment.
Use thank you often but do not water it down. You'll want to make it count. The key is knowing when to use it and to know just how much the completion of a task, project or accomplishment of a goal means to an individual. I knew well the commitment and sacrifices of that Vietnam veteran and how much of a profound difference it must have made in his life. He needed a thank you from me and, moreover from his country. I was proud to have delivered it to him and to his wife.
Looking to take gratitude to a new level and enjoy the benefits of a healthy workforce? Call me and I'll share my experience.
Make it Personal!
Rob
Rob Campbell