We are over COVID-19. Yes, we are tired of the stressors it has presented. We are ready to disregard the requirements of being more flexible and innovative to change. Say it louder for the people in the back!
Social distancing alone is enough to keep us focused on the wrong things. Yet, one of the things we wanted to encourage you to continue focusing on, is the work of your team. The stressors and flexible requirements that you are experiencing as a leader, are the same for the team you lead. Being empathetic is important. Consider how your team is feeling in being responsive to the pandemic. What can you do as a leader to help mitigate any of the tension around the responsiveness? Most importantly, how can you let them know that their work does not go unnoticed and that it is appreciated?
If you are not thanking your team, you must ask yourself, 'what are you doing'? Are you adding to their stressors? A simple, authentic 'thank you' or 'great job' reinforces the important roles they play to the success of the team and organization. Executing that reinforcement can make all the world of difference in the commitment of the team to the overall goal. There is enough noise around us daily regardless of when we may or may not return to what we knew as normal, we can show our appreciation in the midst of it all.
Below are two (2) simple ways to show appreciation:
Verbally say 'thank you'. Whether face-to-face (socially distanced, of course) or virtually, express appreciation for their contributions using your words.
Send a 'thank you'. Any monetary value can cover the cost of sending a thank you to your team. Electronically or small tokens in person or via mail can be distributed to your team.
Help minimize stress and motivate your team at the same time. Try a 'thank you' today!
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