“Thank you!” Is it possible those are the two most important words in business?
They are according to April Kelly, Sr. Director of Customer Operations at LinkedIn.com and author of the new book “Gratitude At Work, How to Say Thank You, Give Kudos and Get the Best From Those You Lead”. “Gratitude is at the forefront of everything,” said Kelly. “The implications for people receiving gratitude, as well as those giving it, are really powerful.”
The concept of the book was created by the idea of teamwork, (focusing on Ms Kelly’s work with PayPal and LinkedIn.com) and how she motivated people. When Kelly examined her success with the motivation exhibited by the teams, it boiled down to one thing – gratitude.
In a LinkedIn.com survey of 2000 people, 65 percent said that their greatest motivator was recognition; proving that even in today’s turbulent economic times, money isn’t always the greatest motivator. This is a great key for leaders who are trying to improve their budget numbers.
“Recognition is unique to each individual and must be meaningful,” said Kelly. “Taking time in getting to know folks, and what excites them, elicits a better response from people because they know you care.”
She added that if you want employees to perform well and to provide needed services, it is critical to acknowledge their efforts when their goals are met. Kelly’s book is a roadmap for success by instilling a culture of gratitude, and in the process, builds stronger dynamics within ones company.
Every manager, and team member, who reads this book, will take away many workable ideas. Kelly includes hands-on exercises in every chapter, such as breaking down the mechanics of gratitude, getting creative when it comes to saying thank you, and understanding what gratitude means to different people.
According to Kelly, “The bottom line is that companies who are not showing gratitude are underestimating their initial investment. When you take time to invest and show gratitude to your team, you are truly investing in your company as well.”
“Gratitude can lead to a lower turn-over rate because people have increased confidence with their company,” said Kelly. “In advertising, your people are your voice and the best word of mouth.”
“Gratitude at Work, How to Say Thank You, Give Kudos and Get the Best From Those You Lead” is a practical guide to introduce gratitude, which is a must for all team leaders. For more information about this book, additional gratitude exercises, and information about the author, visit Kelly’s website at www.gratitudeacademy.com. This book may be purchased through Kelly’s website or on Amazon.com.
April Kelly [14:12m]: 
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Strong article. Very good points. Thank you, are the two most important words when building a business.