It’s been a tough couple of years, and many employees have felt an impact on their mental health and wellbeing as they deal with both internal and external stressors. Managers are stressed too, as they try to support employees emotionally while answering to executives on issues like low morale, poor employee performance, and increased turnover.
When our batteries are drained at work, we start to slow down. And if they never get recharged, we’ll eventually turn off altogether. Sometimes, a simple gesture of gratitude or a sincere thank you for our efforts can give us the boost we need.
Benefits of gratitude in the workplace
Showing appreciation and gratitude in the workplace is a valued practice in high-performing organizations. According to the Harvard Business Review, gratitude improves wellbeing, reduces stress, and builds resilience. People are also more willing to help others who have shown them gratitude in the past.
In one study, researchers had participants edit a student’s cover letter. Half of the participants then received a neutral message from the student acknowledging they’d received their feedback. The other half received a grateful note, where the student expressed their sincere thanks and appreciation.
What do you think happened when the students asked the same participants for help a second time? The ones who got the note of gratitude were twice as likely to agree to help them again.
Why is gratitude important?
Data continues to show some other great benefits of gratitude in the workplace, including:
- Increased engagement: Organizations that recognize their people inspire real connection.
- Higher productivity: When employees feel celebrated and valued, they’re more excited to work.
- Better retention: A positive recognition strategy boosts morale and breeds loyalty.
- Greater motivation: Regular appreciation gives people fresh purpose and momentum.
- More satisfied customers: Employees who are openly praised earn higher loyalty and satisfaction scores.
- Stronger connections: Remote teams feel more connected when positive feedback rolls in.
Now that you know why gratitude in the workplace is important, join me next time for ways to show your appreciation to colleagues and direct reports.
