Appreciated when we're gone

Doesn’t it seem that we find out how much we’re appreciated when we’re gone? At going away parties or funerals, we hear from many people how great so and so was. As my son was leaving his employer to a move to a new one, the bosses worked hard to try to keep him, expressing how much they valued him. His reaction? “I didn’t know they valued me until it was too late.”

This brings to mind the famous saying, “There is no time like the present.” In other words, let those you appreciate, know it. This is not only true for loved ones, but also for your staff. One of the things the Gallup Q12 employee satisfaction survey asks employees, “In the last 7 days, have I received recognition or praise for good work?” In the last 7 days! We’re fortunate if we hear this once a year. In addition to this, research shows that performers want and expect feedback on how they are doing. They want your attention and your coaching.

Here are some considerations.

· Your appreciation doesn’t have to big or dramatic, “Thank you for saving the company!” It’s actually the small ones that make the difference over time, “I noticed you worked late the last few nights. Thank you.” “Good job in leading that meeting.”

· Your recognition must be sincere. Don’t make up something that is not real. It must be authentic.

· It doesn’t need to be robotic like once every seven days. Instead, be proactive in looking for opportunities to recognize or show appreciation.

Get in the habit of showing appreciation and giving recognition to people on a regular basis. To forge a new habit, check out my MBTA technique at www.lancetanaka.com.

Don’t wait until it’s too late!