In today’s hybrid world, the way we communicate at work is shifting – fast. With packed schedules and endless to-do lists, it’s easy for recognition to take a backseat. But when appreciation fades, so does motivation.
The key is to remember that a workplace where people feel seen and valued is one where they will be able to grow and succeed. In fact, a recent survey showed that well-recognised employees are 45 per cent less likely to have moved on from their role after two years.
If we, as HR leaders, encouraged our employees to channel the same energy into our workplace communications as we do in our personal relationships, wouldn’t the workplace be a better place? From words of affirmation, acts of service to quality time, our love languages can be applied into workplace scenarios to create a thriving company culture.
Quality time
Creating a nurturing office culture means more than just written communication to colleagues. Spending time chatting and interacting with colleagues during meetings, calls, collaborative brainstorms, or even a coffee or work social, solidifies a company’s ethos. Putting time into getting to know your colleagues personally shows that their input and presence is valued. It also demonstrates an investment in their personal and professional development.
This can also be done through formalised processes such as internal training, line management catch-ups, mentoring schemes or company town halls to create a sense of togetherness and community throughout the different teams and departments. An open line of communication between an employee and their manager can make all the difference to a working experience and ensure they feel both seen and heard.
Words of affirmation
Words of affirmation in the workplace can be expressed through verbal praise, written recognition and feedback, and public “shoutouts” of someone’s efforts and achievements. Celebrating moments of joy, or ‘peak moments’, can be anything from work anniversaries to campaign launch moments, or an employee’s first time completing a difficult task. Those who receive valuable feedback about their performance from the people they work with are five times as likely to be engaged than those who don’t. This highlights the impact of receiving positive feedback from peers and managers for boosting morale.
Beyond just boosting productivity, a little recognition goes a long way in making employees feel empowered. When employees feel in control of their own growth, they’re more likely to aim higher, set meaningful goals, and push their limits in professional development. It creates a mindset where learning feels exciting, challenges are welcomed, and feedback isn’t feared but seen as a chance to grow. At Canva, showing kudos is a huge aspect of our culture — we have a dedicated Slack channel for sharing kudos messages when people go above and beyond, hit a goal, or make someone’s day.
Acts of service
Implementing acts of service in the workplace involves offering a hand to colleagues when they need extra support. This could be anything from helping with a project when they’re up against a deadline, sharing a previous example of your work to help them complete their task, or stepping in during busy times to take a task off their plate. Acts of service secure bonds within the workplace and encourage an environment where supporting someone else’s success is the norm.
