October 21, 2024 7 Min Read
Leading With Appreciation: How To Recognize And Value Your Team

If you’re like most people, you’ve probably got a to-do list that’s a mile long, deadlines breathing down your neck, and a team that’s looking to you for, well, everything.
In the whirlwind of it all, have you ever caught yourself thinking, “I really should thank [insert team member name] for that amazing work they did”?
But then another email pops up, another meeting gets scheduled, and that thought gets buried under a mountain of other priorities.
Coach Nancy Rumore says that leading with appreciation is about formally or informally taking the time to recognize a person for what they’ve done or contributed. More important than what you’re recognizing someone for is how you do it. Coach Nancy says “It needs to be sincere. This is critical.”
That’s how you keep the top talent, continue to get massive results, and keep everyone together and on the same page.
Why Appreciation Is Your Leadership Superpower (And Why You Might Be Underestimating It)
When we’re juggling a million things, it’s easy to see appreciation as a “nice-to-have” rather than a “must-have.”
But hold onto your coffee mugs because I’m about to reveal why appreciation isn’t just a fluffy, feel-good concept – it’s the fuel that powers high-performing teams.
Increased Engagement
Imagine a workplace where your team members are so fired up, they practically leap out of bed in the morning, eager to tackle the day’s challenges.
That’s the power of feeling valued. When people know their contributions are noticed and appreciated, their motivation skyrockets.
They’re not just going through the motions; they’re actively engaged, bringing their A-game to every task.
A More Positive Workplace Environment
Ever notice how a single positive interaction can turn your whole day around? Well, the same goes for your team. When people feel appreciated, they radiate that positivity. They’re more likely to collaborate, support each other, and go the extra mile.
That positive energy is contagious, creating a workplace where everyone thrives.
Increased Team Loyalty And Less Churn
These days, retaining top talent is like finding a unicorn. (To the point where it’s actually called that)
But here’s the secret: Appreciation is the key to keeping your superstars happy and engaged. Employees who feel valued are far less likely to jump ship.
This is the modern age people are talking about when they talk about the Great Resignation.
They’re not just staying for the paycheck; they’re staying because they feel like they belong, like they’re part of something special.
If you’re thinking, “Well, duh, everyone knows appreciation is important,” you’re right. But here’s the kicker: Most of us underestimate just how powerful it can be. We get so caught up in the day-to-day grind that we forget to tap into this incredible resource.
Why Appreciation Can Feel Awkward – And How To Get Past It
Okay, time for a reality check. Even when we know appreciation is important, it doesn’t always come easily. If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a blank thank-you note or stumbling over your words during a team meeting, you’re not alone.
Here are a few common stumbling blocks that even the most well-intentioned leaders face:
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The Busyness Trap: You know that feeling when your calendar is bursting at the seams, and your brain is juggling a million to-dos? In the chaos, it’s easy for appreciation to slip through the cracks.
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The Fear Of Overkill: Ever worry that too much praise will make your team complacent? It’s a valid concern, but genuine appreciation rarely backfires. In fact, it usually fuels even greater effort.
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The Awkwardness Factor: Let’s face it, some of us just aren’t naturally gushy. Expressing appreciation can feel uncomfortable like we’re stepping outside our comfort zone.
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The One-Size-Fits-All Fiasco: A generic “good job” might be better than nothing, but it won’t resonate deeply with your team. Everyone is different, and appreciation that feels meaningful to one person might fall flat with another.
These challenges are real, but they’re not insurmountable. The good news is that with a little awareness and effort, you can overcome these obstacles and become a master of appreciation.
The trick is to find strategies that work for you – strategies that feel authentic and that fit into your busy schedule.
Your Appreciation Toolkit: 5 Strategies To Uplift Your Team (And Your Leadership Game)
This is all well and good, but what does it look like in the real world? How can you address the challenges, make people feel valued, and ensure you’re genuine and sincere?
Well, here are some practical, actionable tips that will help you become a leader who truly knows how to recognize and value your team. Build your own strategy with these tips as a foundation and you’ll soon find appreciation way easier than you may believe is possible.
#1 – The Power of Specifics (and Timeliness)
Generic compliments are like cheap coffee – they do the job, but they don’t leave a lasting impression. When you’re showing appreciation, get specific.
Instead of a vague “great work,” say something like, “Sarah, I was so impressed with how you handled that difficult client call. Your calm demeanor and problem-solving skills really saved the day!”
And don’t let time slip away. The sooner you acknowledge someone’s contribution, the more impactful it will be. A timely “thank you” shows that you’re paying attention and that their efforts don’t go unnoticed.
#2 = The Mix-It-Up Method
Appreciation comes in many flavors, so don’t get stuck in a rut.
One week, it might be a handwritten thank-you note left on someone’s desk. The next week, it could be a shout-out during a team meeting.
A small gift card for their favorite coffee shop, an extra day off, or even just a heartfelt conversation can all be powerful ways to show appreciation.
The key is to mix it up and find what resonates most with your team. Some people love public recognition, while others prefer a more private “thank you.” By using various methods, you’ll ensure that everyone feels seen and valued in their own unique way.
#3 – The Personalization Puzzle
Imagine receiving a gift that was clearly chosen with you in mind. It feels special, right? Well, appreciation works the same way. Take the time to understand what each team member values.
Maybe it’s professional development opportunities, flexible hours, or simply knowing their contributions are making a difference.
Coach Nancy reminds us “Use people’s names. This means that person was remembered specifically.” She also recommends asking about specific personal events, like vacations and family events and simply asking about that specific event.
When you tailor your appreciation to the individual, it becomes infinitely more meaningful. It shows that you’re not just going through the motions but that you genuinely care about them and their success.
#4 – The Appreciation Ecosystem
Appreciation shouldn’t be a top-down affair. Encourage peer-to-peer recognition and celebrate team successes. Create an environment where everyone feels empowered to express gratitude and uplift each other.
We’re talking employee of the month kind of stuff, but perhaps a little less generic and cheesy.
This could involve creating a “kudos board” where team members can post positive messages, setting aside time in meetings for shout-outs, or even hosting occasional team-building events that focus on appreciation.
What works here will depend on your business, culture, and style of leadership.
#5 – The Lead-by-Example Effect
Remember that old saying, “Actions speak louder than words”? It couldn’t be more true when it comes to appreciation.
As a leader, your behavior sets the tone for the entire team. When you consistently show appreciation for your team members, you create a culture where gratitude and recognition become the norm. Coach Nancy encourages leaders to recognize others as broadly and often as possible. Remember – when leaders recognize others it creates a ripple effect and pretty soon everyone is doing it!
So, make it a point to express your appreciation regularly and authentically. Let your team see you celebrating their wins, big and small. This will not only boost morale but also inspire others to follow your lead and create a ripple effect of positivity throughout your organization.
Ready To Lead With A Grateful Heart? Your Team Is Waiting.
So, there you have it! We’ve explored why appreciation is a non-negotiable for effective leadership, the common roadblocks that get in our way, and some practical strategies for making appreciation a core part of your leadership style.
Now, it’s your turn. I encourage you to take these tips and run with them. Experiment, find what works for you and your team, and don’t be afraid to get creative!
Remember, leading with appreciation isn’t just about making your team feel good (although that’s a pretty awesome bonus).
It’s about unlocking their full potential, fostering a positive work environment, and building a team that’s fiercely loyal, highly motivated, and genuinely happy to come to work every day.
So, here’s to you, the leader ready to ditch the generic compliments and truly connect with your team.
Time to lead with a grateful heart.
Need a little help up-leveling your appreciation game? Book a call with a TaskHuman Coach to get the support you need to succeed.