Are good manners ever ‘old fashioned’?
In a world that is constantly evolving, where trends come and go, one question persists: Are good manners ever ‘old fashioned’?
Specifically, I want to delve into the importance, or lack thereof, of saying “thank you” – even for seemingly trivial or everyday occurrences.
It’s a small phrase that carries substantial weight, especially in a fast-paced, busy environment where everyone around you is engrossed in their tasks.
The truth is, expressing gratitude is easy to forget, particularly when the demands of work and life pull us in myriad directions.
It’s easy to underestimate the impact of a simple “thank you” amidst the hustle and bustle.
However, the essence of good manners, including the expression of gratitude, remains timeless and holds a unique place in fostering genuine connections.
The powerful impact of “thank you”
While it’s crucial to recognise the cultural nuances that influence expressions of gratitude, here in the UK the importance of a “thank you” cannot be overstated.
Different cultures may have varying ways of conveying appreciation, but the essence of acknowledging and valuing others remains constant.
In a globalised professional landscape, understanding and respecting diverse perspectives on gratitude become paramount.
To sound genuine in expressing gratitude, one must strike a balance.
It’s about acknowledging actions without coming across as overly obsequious or deferential.
In a professional setting, the art of saying “thank you” lies in sincerity and authenticity. It’s not merely a perfunctory gesture; it’s an acknowledgment that the other person’s efforts, regardless of how small, have been noticed and valued.
At its core, expressing gratitude gives people the profound sense of being seen, heard and appreciated – aspects crucial to one’s sense of identity.
In a world where recognition is often associated with grand achievements, acknowledging the small contributions becomes even more significant.
A culture of gratitude
A culture of gratitude fosters a positive and inclusive environment, boosting morale and creating a workplace where individuals feel their efforts are integral to the collective success.
In the realm of leadership and teamwork, the importance of expressing gratitude takes on an added layer of significance.
As a leader, overtly recognising the efforts of your team members is a powerful tool in building camaraderie and boosting morale.
When people feel their contributions are acknowledged and valued, it fosters a positive work environment where individuals are motivated to excel.
Moreover, the act of saying “thank you” transcends mere politeness; it creates a culture of reciprocity. When gratitude is openly expressed, it sets the stage for a workplace where people are more inclined to support one another.
This sense of unity can lead to increased collaboration, creativity, and productivity – all crucial elements in the success of any organisation.
In a leadership role, the genuine expression of gratitude becomes a leadership skill in itself.
It’s about recognizing the efforts of each team member, understanding their unique contributions, and fostering an environment where everyone feels appreciated. This not only strengthens the bond within the team but also contributes to employee satisfaction and retention.
In conclusion
I’m sure the use of “thank you” is not a relic of the past.
In a world that often emphasises speed and efficiency, taking a moment to express gratitude is not only a matter of good manners but a strategic investment in building a positive, collaborative, and successful work culture.
So, let’s make “thank you” a cornerstone of our professional interactions, recognising its enduring power in shaping meaningful connections and fostering a workplace where everyone feels seen, heard and appreciated.
That’s how I see it but I could be out of touch. I see plenty of examples where thank you doesn’t seem to be of importance to people.
What do you think? Is it something you hold dear, or does it feel a bit outdated?
If you want to read more about how managers and leaders can develop an ‘Attitude of Gratitude’ then buy a copy of our award winning book, Leader iD, available at Waterstones, Amazon and all good book stores.
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