Sometimes, it’s easy to miss the seemingly small and obvious things that can make a world of difference in our businesses. Like saying "thank you."
Most of us were taught basic manners as children—expressing gratitude, showing appreciation, and acknowledging others’ efforts. But as we get caught up in the fast pace of business, these fundamental habits can slip through the cracks. A genuine “thank you” has the power to strengthen relationships, boost morale, and even improve your bottom line.
Saying “thank you” to your employees and even your customers and vendors can go a long way to building a relationship and making the overall quality of your business better. And I would argue that it has a positive ROI on your business.
After all, aren’t your more likely to work harder when you know your work is appreciated?
How You Say Thanks Matters Just as Much as Saying It
Not everyone wants to be recognized in the same way. A one-size-fits-all approach to appreciation can backfire if it doesn’t align with what truly motivates the individual.
I recently heard the story about an employee who was publicly recognized for his outstanding performance in front of the entire company. Instead of feeling honored, he was frustrated—he hated being in the spotlight. The next time his manager wanted to acknowledge his contributions, they took a different approach and awarded the employee with a painting, which brought him to tears. They honored him in a way that was in line with what motivated him personally.
Three Questions to Improve Your "Thanks ROI"
Here are three simple questions to help you assess how you are saying “thanks” and to identify how to get a greater “Thanks ROI” for your small business:
1. When Was the Last Time You Said “Thank You”? And Did You Mean It?
Not everybody is good at saying “thanks.” For some people, it’s just not natural and takes a concerted effort. For others, it can become a meaningless phrase that is said vaguely and non-specifically. If you fall into either of these camps, I suspect that you may have some unsatisfied folks.
Think about the last time someone thanked you—did it feel genuine? Or was it a vague, generic acknowledgment? Employees, just like you, prefer specific and meaningful recognition. Instead of a simple “thanks for your hard work,” try highlighting exactly what they did well and why it mattered.
2. Do You Know What Motivates Your Team?
First, let me point out that it isn’t always money.
Not everyone is driven by the same type of recognition. Gary Chapman’s book The 5 Love Languages highlights how people feel valued in different ways—some through words of affirmation, others through gifts, quality time, acts of service, or even physical touch (though probably not applicable in the workplace!).
The takeaway is this, people are unique and are motivated by different things. If you don’t know what motivates your employees, then make every effort to figure out what motivates each one and look for ways to say thanks in a way that connects with each person.
Our team at Whirks recently wrote a blog post that includes five ways to say thanks. Check it out to find some great budget-friendly (free) ideas.
3. Are You Measuring Your Team's Overall Happiness and Job Satisfaction?
Most businesses track financial metrics to monitor the health of their business, but how many monitor team morale? Your employees’ happiness directly affects productivity, retention, and overall success.
Start by having regular conversations to gauge how your team is feeling. You can also implement anonymous surveys or structured feedback processes to get a clearer picture of employee satisfaction. If you notice engagement slipping, take action—sometimes, a heartfelt “thank you” is the first step toward improving workplace culture.
This can be as simple as having ongoing conversations where you are asking folks how they are doing, or it can become a structured process that is statistically based. Either way, it is essential to make sure that you are aware of your team’s morale, both as a group and at the individual level.
The bottom line is that your business is dependent on a team of people working together toward a common goal and mission. As their leader, you have the opportunity to inspire and motivate your organization forward. Merely saying thanks in a meaningful way can make that journey much more enjoyable and much more productive.
Gratitude Fuels Growth
Your business thrives on a team of people working together toward a shared mission. As a leader, you have the opportunity to inspire and motivate them simply by acknowledging their efforts in a meaningful way.
When gratitude becomes a habit, your workplace culture improves, employee satisfaction rises, and ultimately, your business benefits. And the best part? It doesn’t cost a thing.
Want to take it further? Learn practical ways to strengthen your client relationships—even when time is tight. Check out Tips to Boost Client Appreciation Efforts (Even When Time Is Tight).
By making gratitude a habit, you’ll build stronger relationships, increase loyalty, and create a thriving business.
So, who’s the first person you’re going to thank today?
