I believe without question that the two most important words in any language are “thank you” whether we are in the business or social environment. And yet, they are often just not used, or not said often enough.
Most people go to work every day aiming to give of their best and in return receive payment in the form of a salary. But research shows that there are two things people want more than sex and money, and that is recognition and praise.
They want to be acknowledged for their efforts – and if one studies volunteer groups, one can see that recognition and a thank you is what drives them forward to give of themselves and their time.
Fostering a culture of gratitude is definitely a game changer for sustainably better performance. It is so easy for a manager to say it verbally, but has an even greater impact when an employee who has been working really hard on a new project for example, receives a hand written note.
Why is it then that so many companies do not foster this environment which seems to be particularly prevalent in Cyprus. Is it seen as a management weakness to be grateful? Is there a fear of some type of revolution within the work environment?
This culture of gratitude can also extend into service industries where tellers for example can give a smile to their customers and say hello. It changes the atmosphere, fosters good will with the clients and will without question, encourage them to shop there again.
At home, I wonder how many parents say thank you to their children? If one is expecting them to say thank you, surely it has to begin by “do as I do rather than do as I say?” I believe that we can definitely nag and complain less, laugh more, listen to what they have to say – especially teenagers who have some interesting perspectives and insights, and say thank you to them for sharing of themselves.
I challenge everyone to make a difference to someone today and say thank you.
I will start the ball rolling by publicly saying thank you to my daughter and mother for all their unconditional love and support, and in business to the sponsors and supporters of my upcoming Cyprus International Food Festival. To all the exhibitors who believed in my concept and dream – THANK YOU.
By Saskia Constantinou
