It is Thanksgiving week in the United States, so let’s talk “Thanks.”
There’s a saying that You Get What You Give. And while the goal of giving thanks should not be “To receive things,” getting something positive in return is often a nice byproduct of being appreciative of others.
It’s amazing that when I thank someone for some action they’ve taken, even if it is just “doing their job,” how many times they will pause and smile…or say Thanks…or say It’s my pleasure. Sometimes they’ll expand and say why they enjoy doing what they’re doing. And it makes me feel good when they stop for a moment and feel appreciation, and I can see they’re pleased to hear the thanks.
In this current world of ZOOM meetings, there are times when the meeting facilitator is seeking affirmation that people understood what she said or agree with the point…but there’s dead silence. So, if I feel their uneasiness, I will give them the thumbs up. I’ll make sure I verbalize that their plan sounds good. I used to silently agree without stating it, but I’ve found that there are few mind readers in the world. If I agree, I need to verbalize that support and appreciation. They, in turn, get the affirmation they deserve.
There have been many instances with CSS, since we are a management consulting firm, where we were brought in by a client or business partner for a project. I try to be as appreciative as I can for them trusting me and our organization to serve them or service their client on their behalf. Likewise, when CSS brings in mystery shoppers, research partners, or subcontractors to do some work on behalf of CSS, I’m appreciative of those folks. I know they’ve got lives and jobs and other responsibilities and priorities, so for them to carve out some time to do work for my clients – even if CSS is paying them – their effort and interest is much appreciated.
Through all this giving of thanks and appreciation, I’ve noticed that the tone of conversations becomes much more positive. The dialogue is much more pleasant. The relationships seem to grow more naturally and easily, and the collaboration seems to flow more smoothly.
So, you don’t always Get What You Give, but if giving includes a lot of thanks and appreciation for others, you have a great chance to get more positive and productive days.
Give to give, and watch what you’ll receive.
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