What we all need!

The greatest need of humans is the need to feel valued. Jody Holland

I will start with a prediction. I predict that as the economy comes back and things become stronger, large numbers of top level executives will quit their jobs and move on to other opportunities for the same reason. That reason is that they did not feel appreciated when they sacrificed during the tough times. The feeling of being appreciated and valued in the workplace is a tremendous cause of dissatisfaction for executives.

The basic problem seems to be that each person wants to be appreciated by others, but many people don't feel the compulsion to show appreciation to others. As leaders, it is our responsibility to set the right example for others to follow. If we are unwilling to demonstrate what appreciation looks like, it is very unlikely that the next level of employees down will demonstrate it either. I hear people say on a regular basis, "I pay them to work and that should be thanks enough." I will let you in a a little secret. It isn't enough! It isn't enough for you, for your teams, or for their teams.

People perform, or don't perform because of the sense of motivation that they experience. This motivation comes from the relationships that they have in the workplace. Even when people indicate that they do not work for the accolades, what they are really saying is, I need my accolades different from others. Some people feel appreciated when they hear the words from their boss. Some people feel appreciated by the raise that they receive. Some people feel appreciated by the recognition of their work. Regardless of how they get to it, they crave it.

As you look at your teams, ask yourself a simple question... What have I done to demonstrate that I appreciate them?

Once you know the answer to that question, ask... What can I do to reinforce those great behaviors? Your focus in your appreciation needs to be on what behaviors you want more of. You need to be consistent about recognizing good behaviors. And, you need to faithful in thinking of the value that your people add to your team.

I wish you nothing but success!

Jody N Holland

www.jodynholland.com

806-355-5567 office

jodynholland@gmail.com