Elevating Your Game with a Culture of Appreciation: A Proven Strategy for Motivating Teams and Winning Customer Hearts
Ever think about how everyone just wants to feel like they matter? That’s true whether we’re at home or on the job.
The folks at Great Place To Work revealed some numbers in 2023: they found that 37% of the people they talked to said a little more recognition at work would make them want to go the extra mile more often. And get this — employees who get a pat on the back regularly are more than twice as likely to be the ones who bring fresh, game-changing ideas to the table.
Now, wrapping your head around this isn’t just about those grinding away at their desks. Customers, too, want to feel appreciated. It sticks with them and keeps them coming back for more. Imagine being a customer and feeling truly valued – it’s pretty powerful stuff, as pointed out by a Forrester survey tapping into customer behavior.
Appreciation is a big deal, but winging it once in a blue moon isn’t going to cut it. That once-a-year holiday bash or quick thank-you post online? Not enough. The secret sauce? Weave appreciation right into the fabric of your culture.
Here’s How You Can Bake Appreciation Right Into Your Daily Business Recipe
Keep it steady with a culture of appreciation. You want recognition to be like that reliable friend who’s always there, not just a once-in-a-while high-five. Here are some savvy tips for creating a vibe where people feel their worth day in, day out:
Setting Up Shop for Authentic Employee Recognition
It’s key to remember that appreciation and recognition are cousins, not twins. Appreciation is about valuing someone as part of your team. Recognition is a high-five for sprinting that extra mile. Get the balance right, and you’re golden:
- Chat with your team. What makes them tick? Do they love a free lunch, a heartfelt note, or something more personalized? There’s no one-size-fits-all here.
- Spread the love. Let’s say you didn’t catch someone doing awesome work—no problem. Encourage the team to give shout-outs and share these wins on your office’s social spaces.
- Details make the difference. Noticing the little things can mean the world. Was their presentation on point? Are they consistently punctual? Call it out – specifics make for meaningful moments.
- Timing is everything. If someone nailed it last week, don’t wait to tell them – strike while the iron’s hot.
- Zoom out to the big picture. During team huddles, tie individual work to the company’s goals. Show them how they’re building the dream. And hey, sponsoring someone’s professional development is a solid investment.
Customer Appreciation That Sticks
Let’s not forget those who keep our lights on – our customers. And think about this from Rockefeller Corporation: 82% of customers would jump ship if they felt underappreciated. Here’s what you can do:
- Make it personal. A thank-you note is just the start. Dial into their preferences and personalize how you reach out.
- Be there. Post-sale or service, touch base. It’s about caring before they even need to ask for it.
- Offer a loyalty ladder. Look at the pros like Starbucks and REI. They’ve turned loyalty into an art form. Customers get to earn points or snag discounts, just for sticking around.
- Throw in surprises. Whether it’s for their birthday, a holiday, or just because—people love perks. And if something didn’t go as planned, make it right with a special something to soothe any ruffled feathers.
Embedding this level of appreciation into every crevice of your company isn’t just nice; it’s smart. It ramps up your team’s drive, sparks innovation, and mints loyal relationships. Whether it’s raising a glass to a teammate’s hustle or crafting a note that hits just right for a client, let every handshake, every meeting be proof of just how much we value the people who make us who we are.
Here’s to not just riding the appreciation wave now and then but making it the ocean we swim in all year round.
