In the highly charged and adversarial world of law, where attorneys are trained to identify what’s wrong or could potentially go wrong, one important aspect of team management is often overlooked – appreciation of what’s going right. This was brought forth effectively by Janea Hawkins, Assistant General Counsel at Freddie Mac and Rob Falk, General Counsel of Truth Initiative in a recent article.
Managers, mentors, and colleagues who take the time and effort to notice and appreciate high-quality work are likely to instill loyalty and respect among their subordinates and contemporaries. This sense of appreciation not only motivates individuals but also subtly signals the kind of work and behaviors that are valued and rewarded.
However, giving appreciation is about much more than offering a generic ‘thank you.’ Genuine and effective acknowledgment encompasses the following elements:
- Noticing a specific action or work product.
- Identifying the unique individual contribution.
- Understanding the tangible impact of the contribution.
- Giving a genuine expression of gratitude.
Such comprehensive recognition of individual contributions can encourage team members to replicate successful behaviors and actions, and in the process, possibly enhance their effectiveness.
With thoughtful and considerate communication, this technique can be employed across hierarchical lines, fostering a culture of appreciation and respect. It can, no doubt, seem lofty or protracted initially, but with repeated practice, it becomes a natural part of everyday conversations.
While this practice promotes a healthier working environment, it should not be used for every minor accomplishment as this could potentially lead to insincerity or desensitization. Rather, the technique should be used thoughtfully and prudently, maintaining a balance that is genuine and impactful.
As with any change, habituating oneself to this practice would require commitment and persistence. Setting tangible targets, like utilizing these appreciative acknowledgments a few times in a week for a given duration, could provide a structured way to integrate this technique into daily management strategies.