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Are you sharing the love with your team?

Heart made from handsValentine’s Day is right around the corner. It’s the one day of the year dedicated to reminding our significant other how much we love them. However there is no specific holiday for showing your team how much you love them, so when, and how, do you express how much they mean to you?

In his book, 5 Love Languages, Gary Chapman reveals that people prefer to receive love in one of five ways. However most people express love the way they want to receive it, not how the recipient wants to receive it. Getting to know your team members can help you to better understand the best way to express your appreciation in a way that will truly move and motivate them. In return a happy team will be more loyal, hardworking and productive knowing they are respected and valued.

What are some ways you can show your love?

Words of affirmation
A simple “thank you” and “well done” can go a very long way. Verbally acknowledge your staff for the work they do. It’s the most basic thing you can do!

Acts of service
Your team may be working as hard as you do. Take some time to lighten their load and help them with some of the projects they are working on. What better way to show your appreciation than to roll up your sleeves and walk in their shoes?

Receiving gifts
Your team members play a big part in your organization’s success. In addition to maybe acknowledging their contribution with an annual bonus at the end of the year, you can gift them a more personal item on their birthday or work anniversary. This simple token will show how much you appreciate them.

Quality time
Time is one of the valuable things in the world because it’s the one thing you can’t buy more of. Giving your team members time off to spend with their family or to take care of themselves is a great way to show how much you appreciate them. As an organization, plan a fun outing where team members can unwind and bond with each other as this will recharge their batteries and increase loyalty.

Physical touch
I’m not suggesting you go around your office and hug your staff. Some might take offense! But there may be some people on your team who like to fly below the radar and don’t prefer public acknowledgement. A simple handshake, high five or a pat on the back will at least let them know that you appreciate them.

Expressing your gratitude and appreciation to your team members isn’t difficult, but learning how they want to be acknowledged and then rewarding them in a way that makes them feel good about themselves and the organization will deliver long lasting benefits to you too!