Let's begin by recognizing that APPRECIATION is a financial term, and as such, has a secure place in the arena of VALUE. We understand that when something APPRECIATES, it grows in value. Typically we think of assets such as real estate that tend to appreciate, or grow in value, over time. For example, if I were to buy a house today for $100,000, the likelihood is that I could sell that house in 10 years for $125,000. It would have appreciated $25,000 in ten years.
Our efforts to appreciate others should result in their growing in value. In other words, they should not only feel valued, but they should in some way grow in their self-value, and even their value to the team. So to truly appreciate someone, we must do something that adds to their value. While public recognition, bonuses and other incentives are powerful ways to express our gratitude, there is yet another method for appreciating that truly adds value. It is another term tied to the financial world: INTEREST.
If I put my money in an interest-bearing account over a period of time, my money would increase in value, or appreciate.
Here is what I want you to see;
If you want to truly APPRECIATE those you lead, take the time to invest INTEREST in them.
Pausing to ask simple, personal questions with a genuine desire to know the answer, has a tremendously powerful effect on the self-worth and value an individual feels. In these moments, the three components for increasing value are at play:
INTEREST : We are showing genuine interest in the well-being and realities of those we serve. Remember that our personal and professional lives, no matter how hard we try, often overlap and have a profound impact one on the other. Showing interest in someone personally will impact their professional reality.
TIME: How much my money appreciates is directly related to how much time I allow it to stay in the interest-bearing account. The same is true in our leadership moments: The longer we can show interest in our teams, the higher the appreciation climbs. A one-minute, "how are you?" will yield a certain amount of added value. The more time we can invest, the greater the return. Appreciating others will take time, but it is time well spent.
ADDED VALUE: Research overwhelmingly supports the idea that working for and with a leader that shows true interest in those they lead has a big impact on workplace productivity and engagement. While I highly recommend financial bonuses and the best benefits package you can afford; One of the greatest things you can do to APPRECIATE your team costs nothing but a little time. Show interest to add value!
Lead Strong
What do you do to show appreciation? Let us know.
