Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Appreciation

One of the things that I have learnt while I am here is appreciation. How important it is as a team to appreciate one another. On my first week at work, my manager called us in for a short meeting in his room. As far as I remember they will have to accompany the VVIP Guest the day after so I thought we will discuss about the preparation for that.

 

I went in just to found out there were three gold coin medals on the table and his camera. After everyone went in, he announced that he would like to pass on the gift from the company for those who have work for 5, 10, and 15 years. For that day, he will pass on the gold coin medals for two of my colleague who have worked for five and 15 years. Took a picture for documentation when he wants to pin the medal to my colleagues and pass on the certificate of appreciation from the Management. The small ‘ceremony’ was filled up with laughter and lots of teasing. The bond in this department is quite tight and the atmosphere in the room feels more like group of friends hang out rather than ‘This is your boss’ room’.

 

Looking back, I realize that he can call my colleague to his office and just give it to them there and then. No one needs to realize that he gives them the gift from the Management. It’s not even from him. But he made the choice to honor his staff and give it in front of everyone of us. His act inspires me a lot and it is actually the high light of appreciation. He, as a leader, set a good example.

 

Often people forget that everyone deserves appreciation. It’s not that they want to get the attention, but we have to admit that once in a while, an appreciation could mean a lot to us. Like this case, I take it as a motivation booster. Having a manager that care for you will boost your motivation to work better. The ambience of the working place no longer is this serious and scary and stressful place. But as a place where we work seriously but at the same time friendship grows and yes, we can have some fun.

 

A small act of appreciation brings a huge impact for the whole department. Not only tighten the bond they have as the member of the department, but also giving them a sense of appreciation to their clients outside of the office as well. I am blessed to be in a team where they appreciate one another. Works become fun. J

 

Just a small act of appreciation could touch someone’s heart. Could encourage someone and boost their confidence. To put it in the relevance in Public Relation, appreciation towards our team member, colleague, those who work with us and even our client will make a difference. Everyone will try to do their best because they know they can through our appreciation.

 

I am trying to put it not only in my working life in general, but also in my daily life. Appreciating people, respect. Encourage them when they need one, and not putting them down just because we think they are not as superior as what we think we are. Not looking down at your classmates just because you think they are not as bright and as hardworking as you. When a leader sets a good example, people will follow. When you set a good example, one or two who are close with you will follow. So why don’t we start to appreciate everyone now? J

 

Gaby, LUCT

 

2 comments:

Anonymous said...
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Anonymous said...

I totally agree with you Gaby..In the past 2 weeks i'v realised that work is more than just keeping it all formal and professional but also about caring and appreciating the other person as well.

The first meeting i attented in the office touched on knowing that you can always turn to your colleagues when your work load gets too heavy for you. i realised it is important to have a good relationship in the workplace in order for this to take place.

Appreciation in the work place is shown by little things like you mentioned. At our work they go all out to make you feel special. For example, when a colleague is sick they call him/her to ensure that they are ok.

These may seem like small things but its the little things that matters the most in life and make life worth living :)

Segomotso
LUCT