Many researchers have investigated whether gratitude improves behavior. The short answer: it does, a lot. That makes it all the more perplexing that, in most workplaces, simple (and cheap) thank-yous are undervalued as motivational tools, while complex cash-based incentive packages abound. This is not to imply that bosses never say thanks. But they mix messages and often offer public displays of gratitude when it's too late - the valued employee is leaving.
So why are many people wary of simple expressions of gratitude, such as emailed or handwritten notes of congratulation? It must be in part because purveyors of the workplace thank-you so often pollute its positive impact by using it incorrectly. For instance, they may believe that gratitude alone is a valid alternative to a raise or promotion, or they may disguise thanks as an order, as in the hollow pre-gratitude of memos that begin: "Thanks in advance for coming in over the holiday period to complete the project."
In addition to avoiding such faux pas, everyone must follow one golden rule: thank-yous have to be sincere.
Read more in the FT.
So why are many people wary of simple expressions of gratitude, such as emailed or handwritten notes of congratulation? It must be in part because purveyors of the workplace thank-you so often pollute its positive impact by using it incorrectly. For instance, they may believe that gratitude alone is a valid alternative to a raise or promotion, or they may disguise thanks as an order, as in the hollow pre-gratitude of memos that begin: "Thanks in advance for coming in over the holiday period to complete the project."
In addition to avoiding such faux pas, everyone must follow one golden rule: thank-yous have to be sincere.
Read more in the FT.
