As an employee, feeling appreciated is one of the most important factors for job satisfaction and engagement. When employees feel valued and recognized for their contributions, they are more likely to be motivated and committed to their work. Moreover, feeling appreciated has been linked to higher levels of oxytocin, a hormone that promotes bonding and positive social interactions. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of employees feeling appreciated, and how companies can cultivate a culture of appreciation.
Increased Morale and Engagement
When employees feel appreciated, they are more likely to have positive feelings towards their work and their employer. In fact, a study by Glassdoor found that 81% of employees are motivated to work harder when their boss shows appreciation for their work. When employees feel like their work is valued, they are more likely to be engaged and committed to their job. This can lead to higher morale and a more positive workplace culture overall.
Boosted Oxytocin Levels
In addition to the psychological benefits of feeling appreciated, there are also physiological benefits. Oxytocin, often called the "love hormone," is released in response to positive social interactions and bonding. When employees feel appreciated and recognized for their contributions, it can lead to higher levels of oxytocin. This can have a range of positive effects, such as reduced stress levels and improved well-being.
Positive Impact at all Levels
The benefits of employees feeling appreciated are not limited to the individual employee. In fact, a culture of appreciation can have a positive impact on the entire company. When employees feel valued, they are more likely to have positive interactions with their colleagues and customers. This can lead to improved teamwork, better customer service, and ultimately, increased productivity and profitability for the company.
Cultivating a Culture of Appreciation
If you want to create a culture of appreciation in your company, there are a few things you can do. Here are some tips:
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Show genuine appreciation: It's important to show appreciation in a sincere and authentic way. Take the time to recognize individual contributions and let employees know that their work is valued.
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Celebrate successes: Celebrate milestones and accomplishments as a team. This can help build a sense of community and foster a positive workplace culture.
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Provide opportunities for growth: Encourage employees to develop their skills and provide opportunities for career advancement. This can help employees feel valued and invested in the company's success.
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Foster open communication: Encourage open and honest communication between employees and management. This can help build trust and create a supportive workplace environment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, feeling appreciated is incredibly important for employees. When employees feel valued and recognized for their contributions, it can lead to higher morale, improved engagement, and increased oxytocin levels. Cultivating a culture of appreciation in your company can have a range of positive effects, from improved teamwork to increased profitability. If you want to create a culture of appreciation in your company, start by showing genuine appreciation for your employees and providing opportunities for growth and development.
References:
- "The Importance of Appreciation in the Workplace." Harvard Business Review, 2018, hbr.org/2018/03/the-importance-of-appreciation-in-the-workplace.
- "The Benefits of Employee Appreciation." Glassdoor, 2019, www.glassdoor.com/employers/blog/the-benefits-of-employee-appreciation/.
- "The Science of Appreciation." UC Berkeley, Greater Good Science Center, 2018, ggsc.berkeley.edu/images/uploads/GGSC-JTF_White_Paper-Gratitude-FINAL.pdf.