The Power of Sincere Appreciation
Learn how a simple, genuine "thank you" can transform your relationships and your business.
“The deepest principle in human nature is the craving to be appreciated.” — William James
It’s often easy to overlook the simple act of appreciation. Yet, it’s often the smallest gestures that have the most significant impact.
Herb Kelleher, co-founder of Southwest Airlines, was known for writing personal thank-you notes to employees, recognizing their hard work and dedication. Despite being the head of a billion-dollar company, he understood the power of making people feel valued. His handwritten notes became legendary and contributed to Southwest’s reputation as a company that treated its employees like family.
What did this do for Southwest Airlines? It fostered one of the most loyal workforces in the industry. Employees felt seen, heard, and respected, which translated into exceptional customer service and a company culture that others wanted to emulate.
Appreciation isn’t just a nice gesture—it’s a strategic tool. When people feel appreciated, they become more engaged and motivated. They’re more likely to put in extra effort, remain loyal, and spread positive word-of-mouth.
Here’s the key: appreciation must be specific and sincere. Instead of vague praise like, “Great job,” try something more personal: “The way you handled that difficult client today showed incredible patience and professionalism. You turned the entire situation around—well done.”
This level of detail shows that you’re paying attention and that your gratitude is genuine. And it’s not limited to your internal team. Showing appreciation to clients, collaborators, and partners strengthens your relationships across the board.
Action Step: This week, commit to writing or verbally expressing one specific note of appreciation each day. It could be a message to an employee who went above and beyond or a thank-you email to a client who supported your business. Keep it detailed and heartfelt.
By taking the time to show sincere appreciation, you’ll be amazed at how it changes your interactions. You’ll foster stronger connections, inspire greater loyalty, and build a culture where people feel valued and empowered.
To learn more about how small actions like these can strengthen your personal and professional relationships, be sure to check out our book of the week: "How to Win Friends and Influence People" by Dale Carnegie.