In agriculture, to cultivate is to loosen the soil, fertilize the crops, and promote growth for the surrounding plants.

Cultivating is a necessary endeavor for long-term viability - in the fields and at the office. And while there are many methodologies for cultivating culture, one ingredient that isn't often discussed is gratitude.

But what a powerful tool it is. From enhanced mood, improved productivity, stronger relationships and a happier workforce, gratitude plays an important role in any organization’s success. Any strong company culture owns an “Attitude of Gratitude.” 

What are a few of the benefits of expressing gratitude in the workplace? Here's 3. 

1. It acknowledges people, not talents.

It’s easy to limit appreciation to the task at hand, such as goals or objectives set by the company or management. However, there’s an unspoken need for other types of support. Many employees want more than just recognition for a ‘job well done.’

They want to feel comfortable approaching leadership and peers about a range of subjects, including those unrelated to work. Show appreciation for employees by recognizing their ability to make others laugh or strike up a conversation about their after-hours volunteer work. Soft ‘perks’ such as flexible work arrangements are another way to show gratitude for hard work, and similar gestures could have a positive impact on your team’s productivity and happiness.

2. It creates better leaders.

Work-life can be stressful – especially in a management or leadership role. Did you know that expressing gratitude can be a way to manage stress? The expression of gratitude has profound and positive effects on both our health and moods. This, in turn, helps create positive emotions and feelings of joy, which can translate into increased engagement and productive interactions at work. All of this can mean great things for your organization. According to a study, employees are 50 percent more successful when leaders show gratitude for their efforts.

It’s a win-win.

3. It has a positive impact on company culture.

Yes, culture. And culture trumps everything at Datamax.

Company culture is a huge factor when it comes to employee retention and onboarding top talent. In today’s tight market, people want more than just a job, but a place where they are more likely to enjoy their time in the workplace and the people around them.

When practicing gratitude in the workplace (both personally and encouraging others to do the same) your workforce will be happier, more productive, and hopefully demonstrate employee advocacy to attract new talent and create positive onboarding experiences.

Cultivating Culture:  6 Ways to Demonstrate Gratitude at Datamax. 

1. Write a “Thank You" letter (even if you lose the sale).

The beautifully simple handwritten thank you note is a timeless gesture of gratitude - for customers or co-workers. For example, it shows that you took some time and effort into offering "Thanks" to a new customer giving you an opportunity.

But Datamax Inc. President Barry Simon advocates for a letter even if you LOSE the sale.

“I call it a lost sales letter. The idea is to never burn a bridge. It also shows that we’re not taking our ball and going home. It’s amazing how many times that we’ve written that letter, and later down the road they’ve given us an opportunity to gain part of their business,” Simon said.

2. Offer unsolicited positive feedback to someone on your team.

Sending a quick text message that says something like “Thanks for everything you do!” shows people that you value their contributions. Unsolicited positive feedback can lift someone’s mood, increase motivation, and build department-to-department camaraderie. In a world where we are all busy and stressed, it’s important to feed your team with positivity.

3. In doing so, Follow the tenets of “Gift of the Goose.”

The Gift of the Goose, according to author Ken Blanchard, must be TRUE.

• Timely - Don't delay a congratulatory message!
• Responsive - Respond positively anytime you see a teammate succeed!
• Unconditional - No strings attached!
• Enthusiastic - Go full Gung Ho in your praise!

4. Send Kudos on LinkedIn.

Why not go social with your positive feedback? This doesn’t just build connections – it builds camaraderie.
How to give “Kudos” on LinkedIn:

1. Navigate to the profile of the LinkedIn member you’d like to recognize.
2. Click the More button in their introduction section.
3. Select Give Kudos from the dropdown.
4. In the Select kudos award pop-up window, select a kudos award from the options provided.
5. Share in a post is selected by default. You can click the dropdown and select Send in a message if you wish to message the kudos to the member.
6. Click Next.
7. In the Share in a post/Send in a message popup window, you can make edits to the content and visibility of your Kudos post.
8. Recommended recognition text will automatically populate according to the member’s details and the Kudos award you selected.
9. You can also add hashtags to the kudos post.
10. Click Post.

5. Consider quality over quantity.

Authenticity is something that must be taken into consideration while showing gratitude. Because without being authentic, the gesture is undermined. Since gratitude can’t be forced, it has to be felt and be fully authentic in nature. For this reason, the quality of the gesture is more important than the quantity in which you disperse.

6. Thank the unsung heroes.

It’s inevitable that within any organization, there are specific groups and people who might get thanked more than others. Give some thought to the “unsung heroes” inside your office, and remember to thank them regularly.