We are told that business is all about giving, and the more we give the more we receive. Well that’s the theory; however business is all about give and take. In return for remuneration we give products, services, advice and time, and then we do the same in reverse to those in our supply chain. That is what makes the wheels of industry go round and round. However one key aspect of the process that is constantly overlooked and is so fundamental to the success of business is the ability for people and organisations to thank those who have contributed to its success.
“The simple act of saying ‘thank you’ is a demonstration of gratitude in response to any experience that was meaningful to a customer or citizen.” Simon Mainwaring
Many do not realize how such a simple and possibly irrelevant factor to some could have such a profound consequence on your own individual and organisational success. The simple act of acknowledgement and gratitude can lead to a significant change in the motivation of your own workforce, customers and suppliers and provide an opportunity with potential new customers whilst gaining a competitive advantage over your competition. Appreciation and acknowledging of your loyal customers not only benefits you it can also lead to increased ROI as happy customers will share your positive behaviour with others.
The Gratitude Effect:
Common sense tells us that this behaviour is just good manners, but how often are simple manners overlooked in life and business? In a study at the Harvard Business School on the effects of gratitude they found that the impact of “acknowledgement” had a motivational factor that increased the positive behaviour in people by over 50%. They also found that saying “thank you” had a contagious effect on people as they would share their positive experiences with others who were twice as likely to help and support you. The findings of this study, known as the gratitude effect, found that by acknowledging and thanking those who help you, in turn they will support and help you time and again.
“We must find time to stop and thank the people who make a difference in our lives.” John F. Kennedy
The Power of Gratitude:
Missing the chance to express gratitude? Organisations and leaders lose a relatively cost-free opportunity to motivate those who support their success. A simple gesture of goodwill and gratitude will always go a long way. Promotional items such as Chocolates, Flowers and Branded Corporate Gifts are a simple and effective way to expresses your gratitude, to reward people for placing their trust in you and your business. Not only does it acknowledge their faith in you, but it also is a key building block in the foundation of a potential healthy relationship with you and your brand. Strengthening and enhancing relationships with your customers is the single most important component of day to day business operations.
Actions Speak Louder Than Words:
Sometimes saying “thank you” is not enough. How you say it is just as important, otherwise it will not receive the conviction that it was meant to deliver. People need to understand that what you are telling them is what you believe and there is no better way to enhance your gratitude and add value to a thank you with either a branded gift or discount on future orders. Saying thank you with a branded gift reaffirms your relationship and reminds them of your company’s ethos whilst keeping your brand in the forefront of their minds. Think about it, have you ever said “No Thank You” to a gesture of goodwill? No, I didn’t think so.
“No one who achieves success does so without acknowledging the help of others. The wise and confident acknowledge this help with gratitude.” Alfred North Whitehead
