How to tell if someone needs appreciation

 
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There’s a trick to being able to tell if someone needs sincere praise and appreciation.

Check to see if they’re alive.

If yes, proceed.

Genuine appreciation is a core human need and a rare occurrence.

A cultural influencer like you can change that.

Start by paying attention. Consciously be on the lookout for what’s positive. This may require reprogramming your default lens which scans the world for what’s wrong, missing, or lacking.

Seek out what’s good.

Consider the people you interact with everyday. Do you see courage, passion, patience, tenacity, generosity, kindness or loyalty in anyone? Why not let them know? One of the most impactful ways to offer praise and appreciation is to identify a character trait you respect in another.

Once you’ve recognized the good in someone, follow this 5-step process:

  1. Tell the person what specific character trait you noticed in them.

  2. Cite the evidence or specific situation you’re referring to.

  3. Finish with, “I wanted to let you know that I admire that about you.”

  4. Allow space for their “thank you” response.

  5. Shhhhhhush up. This is critical. Don’t ruin the moment by talking incessantly for the next five minutes. When you’re done giving this gift…be done.

While offering sincere praise and appreciation within the workplace results in lower turnover, improved customer satisfaction scores, and an increase in overall productivity…the most compelling reason to do it is that it feels good.

Enjoy the side-effects of spreading encouragement.

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2 minute readRich SchlentzLoyalty, Engagement, LeadershipComment