Tech pros have a lot to deal with. When they’re not busy evaluating new ideas like Web3, analyzing the potential of blockchain or dreaming about the future with generative AI, they’re frantically reading the latest trade articles, developing new soft skills, completing certifications or tackling tough stretch assignments.
It’s an exciting time. This year, global tech spend will push $4.4 trillion. Companies are investing to harness the power of emerging technologies and introduce elegant, efficient and effective features and tools.
Jobseekers, developers, engineers, programmers and product managers will certainly be busy in 2024 and beyond. In this reality, how can leaders and managers connect with and support each member of their team? The answer may lie in one forgotten practice: gratitude.
We met with HR leader Melanie Scheer of Accelerated Digital Media to ask how managers and directors can ensure their teams feel appreciated. Read on for her answers.
Accelerated Digital Media (ADM) is a marketing agency that specializes in paid media management for high-growth digital health and e-commerce companies.
Describe some effective ways you show gratitude for your employees at Accelerated Digital Media.
In 2023, ADM introduced a quarterly corporate recognition initiative. Every team member has the opportunity to nominate a colleague who has demonstrated exceptional alignment with our company values, known as A-PRIDE: Accountability, People, Respect Every Interaction, Innovation, Do it with a Smile and Encourage Ideas and Empower Pursuit. Personally, this stands out as one of my preferred ADM initiatives, as it empowers employees to acknowledge one another on a broader scale. The executive team evaluates the nominations, and it's noteworthy that the number of submissions keeps increasing each quarter. Ultimately, we select the team member who has most prominently exemplified these values.
The key to effective gratitude and appreciation is personalization and sincerity. What works best may vary from one organization or team to another, so it's important to adapt your approach to what resonates with your employees and your company's culture. At ADM, we make it a daily practice to celebrate successes, whether through Slack messages or during company-wide meetings. Our recognition is always sincere and genuine.
The key to effective gratitude and appreciation is personalization and sincerity.”
What impact have these moments of appreciation had on employees and the business?
Moments of appreciation can have a significant positive impact on both employees and the business. At ADM, our team’s engagement and loyalty are strong and thus lead to a more effective and productive work environment. On a smaller scale, when team members recognize and celebrate each other's contributions, it can lead to stronger collaboration, trust and cohesion within the team.
When employees feel appreciated and safe to express their ideas, they are more likely to contribute innovative solutions and create positive interactions with customers, leading to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty.
What is a common mistake managers make when trying to show appreciation for employees?
A common mistake managers make when showing appreciation for employees is assuming that a one-size-fits-all approach will work. This can lead to a sentiment of insincerity or employees feeling undervalued. It's essential to take the time to understand each employee's preferences, work style and motivators. Some employees may prefer public recognition, while others might prefer private praise.
How can managers avoid these blunders?
We ask employees to complete a “Get to Know Me” form during onboarding so that managers are immediately aware of their new employees’ preferred communication style. This proactive approach ensures that we can tailor our appreciation efforts to suit individual needs from day one.
Regular feedback and recognition should be integral to the management routine because these steps help create a culture of appreciation within the organization. Managers should be flexible in their approaches to ensure that each employee feels valued and appreciated in a way that is most meaningful to them.
Implementing these strategies can boost profitability through enhanced productivity, reduced turnover and improved customer satisfaction. It all stems from a highly valued and engaged workforce.
