There are two simple words that can increase productivity, enhance collaboration among employees, make managers more effective and improve corporate performance.
“Thank you.”
I have studied gratitude for more than two decades, and one common theme emerges repeatedly: Even basic expressions of thanks have remarkably powerful effects. Knowing that others—whether managers, co-workers or clients—appreciate our actions makes us feel valued. And when you feel valued by someone, you think more highly of them and are more willing to go out of your way to help them.
But while showing gratitude isn’t difficult, how to do it well isn’t always obvious. And the nuances can make all the difference.
Sara Algoe, professor in the department of psychology and neuroscience, and founder and director of The Love Consortium, writes these words in a column in The Wall Street Journal.