When someone's extra effort is noticed and appreciated, it makes them feel valued. It gives them a sense that the way they spend their days matters. This can significantly boost their morale and job satisfaction and give them greater confidence overall. Taking the time to acknowledge the work of others (service workers especially) creates a more positive and connected community that makes people want to get involved with one another.
Your prompt today is to pick an action from the list below and show a worker how much you value their efforts:
- Verbal Appreciation — A simple sincere "Thank you, I really appreciate your going the extra mile" can do a lot. Be specific about what you noticed and valued. For example: "Thank you for remembering my usual order. That's so thoughtful." Or "I really appreciate you taking the extra time to make sure this package arrived safely."
- A Written Note — A brief handwritten note expressing your gratitude can be especially impactful and memorable. The recipient may very well keep it to refer to when the going gets tough or they feel underappreciated.
- Positive Feedback to a Supervisor — If you've had an exceptional experience, consider taking the time to compliment the individual to their manager or through a customer service channel. It could help lead to a raise or promotion!
- Small Gestures of Kindness — Depending on the situation and your comfort level, a small gesture like offering a treat (if appropriate) can be a nice way to show appreciation, especially if it’s homemade.
Even if you can't pinpoint a specific instance of a time someone went above and beyond, simply being a polite, patient, and understanding customer makes a difference.
Remember, workers are people with their own challenges and lives. A little recognition and kindness can go a long way.
—Aesop