The Value of 'Thank You'
If we could attribute monetary value to the American lanuage, how much would 'Thank You' be worth?
It's not just a common phrase of courtesy, it can be a motivational phrase that let's people know they are valued. We teach these words to our children from an early age, and we can even feel slighted when adults 'forget' to say it in random scenarios (like holding the door for someone).
Why are these two words - abrupt in their sound yet cushioned in their meaning - so important? Why do they make us feel appreciated and worthy?
And why is it so difficult for some people to say them?
I have found myself frustrated many times when I see people who deserve to be thanked, and no one takes the initiative to say those two, small words. People are often quick to complain when we have bad service at a restaurant or experience a rough customer service phone call. But why don't more of us take an extra moment to tell those fabulous servers or reps just how much we appreciate them... how great of an experience we had because of them... thank them for a job well-done?
I made a pact with myself about a year ago, and I'm still living it because of how I've seen my actions touch strangers' lives. I am sharing this with you because I'd like to think that small actions involving the words 'Thank You' can make a difference in someone's life... and anyone can do it!
Here are some examples of my Thank You Theory:
(1) When I have a fabulous server at a restaurant, I will ask for the manager to personally tell him/her how great the server was. I provide specifics so the manager knows why my waiter/waitress was outstanding and can document the server's file (perhaps that is just the Human Resources person in me coming out). Of course, I tell the server just how great my experience was and thank him/her as well.
(2) When a coworker does something above and beyond what is expected, I am certain to tell his/her manager. I often include the feedback in an email so it is more easily documented. In addition, I will send the employee a thank you note in the mail. It's a personal way to let him/her know that their gestures were appreciated and valued. Please understand that in my current position I am able to do that without seeming like a stalker or anything... so I simply take advantage of the opportunity to pass along a 'Thank You' when I can.
These are two clearer examples of my Thank You Theory in action, but saying the words when they are due is so easy. I wish more of us would see the value in the two words and share the wealth.
It's not just a common phrase of courtesy, it can be a motivational phrase that let's people know they are valued. We teach these words to our children from an early age, and we can even feel slighted when adults 'forget' to say it in random scenarios (like holding the door for someone).
Why are these two words - abrupt in their sound yet cushioned in their meaning - so important? Why do they make us feel appreciated and worthy?
And why is it so difficult for some people to say them?
I have found myself frustrated many times when I see people who deserve to be thanked, and no one takes the initiative to say those two, small words. People are often quick to complain when we have bad service at a restaurant or experience a rough customer service phone call. But why don't more of us take an extra moment to tell those fabulous servers or reps just how much we appreciate them... how great of an experience we had because of them... thank them for a job well-done?
I made a pact with myself about a year ago, and I'm still living it because of how I've seen my actions touch strangers' lives. I am sharing this with you because I'd like to think that small actions involving the words 'Thank You' can make a difference in someone's life... and anyone can do it!
Here are some examples of my Thank You Theory:
(1) When I have a fabulous server at a restaurant, I will ask for the manager to personally tell him/her how great the server was. I provide specifics so the manager knows why my waiter/waitress was outstanding and can document the server's file (perhaps that is just the Human Resources person in me coming out). Of course, I tell the server just how great my experience was and thank him/her as well.
(2) When a coworker does something above and beyond what is expected, I am certain to tell his/her manager. I often include the feedback in an email so it is more easily documented. In addition, I will send the employee a thank you note in the mail. It's a personal way to let him/her know that their gestures were appreciated and valued. Please understand that in my current position I am able to do that without seeming like a stalker or anything... so I simply take advantage of the opportunity to pass along a 'Thank You' when I can.
These are two clearer examples of my Thank You Theory in action, but saying the words when they are due is so easy. I wish more of us would see the value in the two words and share the wealth.
Comments
1) Thank you, and Mike, for being there for us recently, and Alicia for being there long term.
2) I say thank you to everyone, even people I hold the door for when they pass by - I figure someone has to do it, why not me? I also try and send thank you notes to someone that has helped me, and include their superior if I know who they are.