Be a Better Leader: Mastering the Five Appreciation Languages of the Workplace

When showing appreciation to the dedicated people working alongside you in serving your nonprofit’s mission, you not only boost their productivity and engagement but also increase their wellness! Now that’s a workplace perk!

Plenty of studies have shown that individuals who feel appreciated at work have stronger connections to their organization, have more drive and perform better – leading to higher job satisfaction and lower turnover. There is a definite power in practicing employee recognition – especially at nonprofits! But let’s explore an individual’s personal preference when receiving appreciation and how that can make a big difference.

Showing appreciation to your colleagues and staff should be done thoughtfully and delivered in the language they each understand and, more importantly, appreciate. Here’s your primer on the five languages of appreciation at work.

1. Words of Affirmation
Many teammates appreciate verbal acknowledgment; however, words can lose meaning or sincerity if too generic or vague. For example, simply saying “good job” or “thank you” may have little impact. Instead, aim to be specific with your praise, such as saying how much you appreciate the employee’s effort in guiding a new hire or their quick-thinking and flexibility during a time of disruption.

2. Tangible Gifts
Gifts don’t need to be expensive to be meaningful. When giving a gift to show your appreciation, think of the recipient. It may help to ask their close colleagues about what their coworker likes or the hobbies they enjoy outside of work. Giving locally roasted coffee beans to a coffee enthusiast will feel more special to them than a coffee gift card.

3. Celebratory high-fives
When done sincerely and appropriately, physical contact like a high-five, handshake and even a fist bump can encourage and build a positive relationship. Be cautious, though, as physically touching an employee can cross personal and cultural boundaries.

4. Quality Time
Many employees value one-on-one meetings and check-ins to obtain your undivided attention and relationship building. Check-ins can be informal, taking only a few minutes of your day but allowing you to engage with your employee personally. Quality time can also take the form of exchanging and increasing knowledge. For example, a junior employee may desire your guidance and the opportunity to connect with you on a mentee-mentor level.

5. Acts of Service
We’ve probably all heard the phrase ‘actions speak louder than words,’ and this can be true to expressing appreciation to your teammates as well. Finding opportunities to help or serve them may be just the appreciation they’re looking for. From bringing a fresh cup of coffee to lending a hand with an overwhelming project, there are many ways to show actionable appreciation.

The key to communicating in the correct language for showing appreciation is knowing your employees and colleagues well. Take the time to observe your employees and check in regularly to learn and understand their preferences. Your investment of time and attention will be amply rewarded!

From Jackie Sue Griffin & Associates: JSG & Associates are experts in all areas of business operations with a passion for nonprofit leaders and the systems and organizations they lead to help people and communities thrive. JSG & Associates provides services for grant writing, program development, evaluation, capacity building, professional development and education. For more information visit https://jsg-associates.com.