Christine Riordan’s article, Foster a Culture of Gratitude, lists three ways studies and research has shown leaders can foster a culture of gratitude by developing, involving, and celebrating employees on a constant basis.
1. Help others develop: Employees feel more engaged in the company culture when they have opportunities for growth and development. Conduct a survey to see which workshops have the most interest or a leadership program for those who wish to develop skills that will lead to promotions. If promotion opportunities are limited, create task forces and new projects.
2. Involve employees in decision-making: Take interest in your employees or co-workers; find out their skills and hidden talents. Have them take part in discussions involving those specialties. Studies have shown that when employees are able to use their skills in the workplace creates greater job satisfaction.
3. Acknowledge and celebrate: Positive reinforcement is key, it is easy to spot when something is wrong, but also take note when something is done right. Providing praise, rewards and awards when employees are working hard and doing a great job gives a sense of pride. This is also a key component and skill in Employee Development Systems’ Communicating to Manage Performance course.
