Remember to Say Thank You
I’ve written previously about the power of praise, and how important it is to motivating and inspiring people. One of the simplest was to extend praise is with two simple words — Thank You.
Think about the last time you extended and thank you. Was it well thought out and sincere, or was it a throw away line? Was is delivered in a respectful manner, or added as an afterthought? Can you even remember the last time you said the words? The last time you really meant them?
It seems like even adults need a reminder to say thank you these days, so here is your reminder, and a few little tips.
Be personal. When thanking someone, use his or her name. We notice when someone uses our name, and it makes us feel important. What a powerful one-two punch to send to someone: I think you’re important, and Thank You.
Example: Susan, thank you so very much.
Be specific. A Thank You takes on greater importance if you can include a specific reason for it. Being specific shows that we were paying attention, that we noticed the contribution of others. It also says that I’m not just saying thank you because I’m supposed to, because I know why as well.
Example: Susan, thank you so very much for the impressive review and modifications to our project budget.
Be sincere. It’s a shame that this even need to be mentioned, but a sham Thank You is nearly as bad as none at all. Be honest. If a performance wasn’t perfect, acknowledge that part which was.
Example: Susan, thank you so much for re-arranging your schedule to tackle the budget changes. It was a Herculean effort.
Be timely. Although a Thank You is appreciated at any time, we should always try to give it sooner rather than later. We shouldn’t assume that people realized that we are grateful. We need to tell them.
Example: Thank you Susan for dropping everything yesterday and crunching the numbers for our proposal. It was a Herculean effort. We couldn’t have made such a successful presentation today if it weren’t for your efforts.
Two words. Powerful impact.
Try to integrate Thank you into your vocabulary more frequently.
Tags: b5media, Communication, communication-skills, leadership, Leadership Skills, leadership-skils, leadership-turn, leadership_skills, success, team_buildingRelated Stories
POSTED IN: Communication, Group Dynamics, Leadership Skills, Uncategorized
1 opinion for Remember to Say Thank You
Mohiuddin Khan
Jun 14, 2007 at 5:48 am
Ya, this is nice. And I am trying to do as mentioned.
Have an opinion? Leave a comment: