Recognize This: Even senior executives need appreciation.
Picture the members of your C-Suite in your mind. How many of them do you think are in it for the long-haul? Can you imagine any of them leaving?
Apparently, they can. According to recent research from ExecuNet and Finnegan/MacKenzie:
“Executives’ collective satisfaction with their current leadership role and employer is demonstrably lower than their steady commitment to carry out the core and ever-evolving responsibilities of their job… Nearly any executive can be hired away at any time. If opportunity knocks, executives will take the risk to pursue it, even in an economic cycle like this.”
Just how many would consider leaving?
“92% of CEOs and 94% of all other management respondents say a leader can be engaged in their work and with their employer but still open to considering new career opportunities with other organizations.”
Why would they consider leaving? The research delves into possibilities, but money isn’t a leading factor. I suggest another reason – even your senior executives need to be appreciated for the work they do. Even those in the ivory tower need to know that those who work for them appreciate their efforts and recognize how hard they are working.
Are you in a senior leadership position? When was the last time someone thanked you for what you do? When was the last time you felt you and your efforts were truly appreciated?
If you’re not in senior leadership, would it feel odd to you to recognize someone above you? Why? Have you ever done that? Share your story.
2 comment(s):
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At December 21, 2010 9:49 PM, Anonymous said...
Lowly bean counter asks: how does one recognize his manager without looking like a suck-up?
At December 22, 2010 10:08 AM, Derek Irvine said...
That's a great question, bean counter, but not a simple one -- and neither is the answer.
A lot comes down to the culture of the company you work in. If the culture is already one in which the majority of the people express thanks and appreciation to each other for their efforts, contributions, etc., then doing so for the boss doesn't seem odd or "suck-up-ish."
However, if you're working in a culture where you're just "expected" to deliver because "it's part of your job" -- and the same is true for the majority, than any kind of direct "thanks for that" can be seen in the wrong light.
That said, I don't think you'd look like a suck-up as long as you're authentic -- a critical component of recognition to/from anyone.
If you get feedback from your boss that really is useful, a sincere "thanks for that guidance" isn't a suck up maneuver. Frequency, timing and, above all else, authenticity is critical for how recognition is perceived.