Easy Ways to Show Appreciation and Support for Your Colleagues

“No man is an island,” said English poet John Donne. These words still hold true, especially in the workplace.

We often rely on colleagues to guide us, give us feedback and provide emotional support when necessary. Sometimes, our colleagues make work more pleasant by throwing in some humour. They make the good times better and the bad times manageable.

Which is why peer recognition — where efforts and achievements are acknowledged and appreciated — should not be underestimated. And there certainly are benefits to it.

First, research has shown that appreciating someone makes them happier by releasing the happy hormone oxytocin. It could also encourage others to reciprocate the appreciation.

Secondly, peer recognition fosters collaboration. Research proves that showing gratitude motivates someone to be more helpful.

Thirdly, it intrinsically motivates and rewards staff, according to a report commissioned by the Tripartite Alliance for Fair and Progressive Employment Practices (TAFEP).

The same report cited insurance company Aviva Limited, which implemented a programme called ‘Caught in the Act’ for staff to thank peers who have gone the extra mile. In 2017 alone, the company saw the number of nominations increase by 113% year on year.

DBS too leverages the power of social recognition through its peer recognition programme aptly named iTQ (I Thank you) and WeTQ (We Thank You) that allows staff to thank and motivate one another.

No one will say no to a little surprise or some heartfelt words of thanks. Such gestures make the office environment a happier one.

Here are some suggestions on how to thank your colleagues.

1. Send them their favourite treats

Receiving a box of baked treats or a favourite cup of bubble tea could perk you up during a workday.

2. Mail a handwritten thank you note or send an e-card

Writing a message from the heart to thank your colleague is a simple yet powerful way of showing gratitude. You can send an e-cards through websites such as Simply Say or Smilebox.

3. Acknowledge their contributions during meetings or gatherings

By publicly validating your colleague's role in helping you, you're showing that you do not take them for granted and creating an opportunity to foster stronger bonds.

4. Write a LinkedIn testimonial to boost their personal branding

Write a good testimonial by sharing how your colleague has helped you at work or demonstrated a high level of competence in a particular area.

5. Leave a surprise item on their desk

Depending on what your colleagues like, leave them something nice like an adorable figurine, stylish yet nifty stationery, or beautiful flowers.

6. Hold a virtual party

Schedule a get-together where everyone brings snacks and drinks to celebrate one another's contributions to the team. This is a good opportunity for everyone to relax and build greater camaraderie.

Showing genuine appreciation fosters a bond between colleagues. Doing so creates the platform for them to help each other, leading to better outcomes at work.

A little gratitude can go a long way.

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