We all give thanks for many things on Thanksgiving, but do you who are owners and managers show your employees some gratitude for all the hard work they do for your business?
According to one former auto parts business owner, it is important to for companies to have an attitude of gratitude towards their employees. Otherwise they are risking low morale, a negative culture and less-than optimal productivity.
Todd Patkin, who ran his family's auto parts business until it was acquired by a larger competitor in 2005, said, “The good news is, there's no better time than right now at Thanksgiving to start showing your employees or coworkers that you appreciate their efforts and care about them as individuals.”
He learned just how valuable a culture of gratitude could be, and he made it his No. 1 priority to always put his people and their happiness first. “In so many organizations, employees go through their days assuming that their coworkers, and especially their bosses, don't notice or appreciate all of the hard work that they do,” Patkin explains. “And if that's the way you feel, you will just go through the motions. You won't have any true motivation or dedication, and your productivity will be mediocre at best.”
Gratitude, he declared, is a motivator for your company's growth.
Always say “thank you.” If you have a job that allows you to twiddle your thumbs, you're definitely in the minority. Most of us have a desk full of things that should have been done yesterday, and it's easy to use the excuse that we don't have time to hand out compliments and thanks like candy. According to Patkin, though, there's no better way to use your time. By taking just 30 seconds longer to get back to your office, you have improved another person's mood, day, and productivity level. You'll also be making yourself more approachable and likeable, and over time your team will begin to relate to you more positively.
“Just as employees respond well to gratitude, so do customers and clients,” Patkin said. “A simple ‘Thank you for your business' is easy and free, and there's no excuse not to make use of this tool. You might also consider offering discounts, coupons, or promotions to show customer appreciation.
"Especially in a tough economy, it's vital to let those whom you serve know how much they mean to you so that they don't take their business elsewhere."
And someone who takes their business elsewhere is a sale your company didn't make.
