“In a time when almost 60% of employees feel unappreciated at work, your ability to show authentic employee appreciation may be a determining factor in your ability to retain employees and stave off The Great Resignation.”
Recently, we participated in Student Appreciation Week at BYU. While thinking about ways we can show appreciation to our student employees, I was reminded of Dr. Paul White’s research on the 5 languages of appreciation in the workplace. Dr. White explains that when you understand your employees’ preferred language of appreciation, you will be able to communicate much more effectively with them. This will make your messages more meaningful because it is based on what they value. On the flip side, when you miss the mark and communicate in a language of appreciation that does not resonate for your employee, you will end up with confusion and indifference from the employee.
In order to better “hit the mark” when it comes to employee appreciation, let’s review best practices to help us put the 5 languages of appreciation to work here at BYU.
Guiding principles when showing appreciation in the workplace.
1. Not everyone feels appreciated in the same ways.
Employee appreciation is not one-size-fits-all. We often default to the same one or two actions for everyone—such as sending a quick “thank you” email—because we don’t know or haven’t thought about what other options are available.
2. Words of praise don't work for everyone.
Words (Words of affirmation) are the most commonly used language of appreciation, but over half of employees value different types of appreciation.
3. Appreciation isn't just a “top-down” process.
While manager-driven employee recognition is powerful and necessary, it’s also important to acknowledge that it’s everyone’s responsibility to create a culture of appreciation at work.
4. Appreciation is most impactful when communicated regularly, delivered personally, and perceived as authentic.
Appreciation at work isn’t about checking an item off on the to-do list. It’s about expressing genuine gratitude and making your employees feel seen, heard, and valued.
With these best practices in mind, let’s briefly review the 5 employee appreciation languages.
1. Words of affirmation.
46% of the workforce prefers words of affirmation.
According to research from Dr. Paul White, nearly half of employees prefer words of affirmation, which is all about using written or spoken language to celebrate an individual.
2. Quality time.
26% of the workforce prefers quality time.
Quality time in the workplace is all about receiving someone’s complete and focused attention.
3. Acts of service.
22% of the workforce prefers acts of service.
This appreciation language is all about performing small acts that can support, unblock, or simply bring more joy to someone’s day.
4. Tangible gifts.
6% of the workforce prefers tangible gifts.
Tangible gifts shouldn't be confused with raises or bonuses. This language of appreciation is all about sharing gifts that reflect your employees' or colleagues' interests, passions, and preferences.
5. Appropriate physical touch.
The smallest population group, less than 1% of the workforce, prefers physical touch.
A congratulatory handshake, celebratory fist bump, enthusiastic high-five can all be powerful forms of appreciation.
In sum, the best way to communicate appreciation is in a consistent, personal, and authentic way.