When people are stressed out, they’re more likely to treat
those around them poorly. But research shows that creating a culture of
gratitude on your team can not only lift people up and boost morale, it may
also prevent workplace mistreatment. So be a role model. For example, take
time to give each employee a sincere and personalized thank you for their
effort this year. Or create time and space (physical or virtual) for
gratitude. Some employees may feel uncomfortable expressing appreciation
verbally, so you might start an appreciation wall to recognize each other. Alternatively, you could begin
meetings with gratitude “check-ins,” during which team members can express
one thing that they’re thankful for. Or consider creating opportunities where
customers, clients, patients, or other beneficiaries can explain how they’re
positively impacted by the work of your employees. There's no better time to
introduce these practices than the holiday season, as we're all reflecting on
what's been a trying year. So go ahead and start now. |
This tip is adapted from “Building a Better Workplace
Starts with Saying 'Thanks,',” by Lauren R. Locklear et al. |