Nonprofit workers are some of the most unsung heroes I know. They work long hours for little monetary benefit, and if and when a nonprofit gets recognized for the amazing work they do, the credit usually goes to the Executive Director. But we all know that we couldn't get the great work done without a wide range of contributors, including our staff, our board and our volunteers.
Appreciation doesn't have to be formal, such as an award or a bonus. It can be as simple as ordering lunch in when you know people are really busy or hosting an impromptu happy hour or buying someone coffee.
And don't underestimate the power of positive feedback, which doesn't cost you anything! The Center for Creative Leadership suggests that you give feedback in a ratio of 4:1 positive to developmental - and the more specific, the better. Mention the situation, the behavior you observed and the impact the behavior had on you. For more information on giving feedback, check out CCL's Guidebook on Feedback that Works.
So take some time each day to thank someone that you might otherwise take for
granted for the work they're doing (this also works well with your significant other!). If you do it right, you'll also
make it easier - on you and the recipient - when you need to give
developmental feedback down the road.
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