As we work to get ready for the end of 2018 and the holidays, it’s easy to get so caught up in the work that we forget what the season is all about. It’s a time of contemplation and assessment but also one of deep appreciation. gratitude, and thankfulness for all those who have touched our lives throughout the year.
I appreciate all of you who have helped me during 2018 with my work, my new book, and my life. I am so grateful to all of the entrepreneurs and executives who have let me have a seat on their journey – for a passenger’s view into the great ride of leadership. I learn so much daily from each and every one of you that I’m always in awe of your brilliance. You make a difference in the lives of your employees, your customers and your family every day.
So often when we have problems in an organization, we look at employees first as the possible cause. It certainly can be, and in some cases and it’s a great place to start. I often hear lack of “employee engagement” as the root cause of the organization’s problems and yet no clear way to solve the issue. Employee engagement has so many different facets that without a deep dive in to the organization, the annual survey is unlikely to find the real problem.
Where does this leave you as a leader? Start with “thank you.” Start with appreciation for everything that your employees do for your customers, for you and for each other. Just a simple act of appreciation does wonders for employee engagement. I’m not suggesting that this is where you stop, I’m suggesting this is where you start. Research has shown that employees want a place to belong, a sense that they are authentically appreciated for their contribution and a place to grow. This can be your gift to each of them and it simply starts with that very human connection of appreciation.
As they say, there is no time like the present to begin to create a workplace that fosters growth, respect, and appreciation. This time of year lends itself to that easy beginning. Gallup research shows that the four things employees are looking for in a workplace are Trust, Compassion, Stability, and Hope. Give them these gifts starting with hope for a better opportunity to learn, grow and belong in 2019.
Thank you to each of you on my journey. I appreciate all that you have given me and wish you all a very happy holiday season!