Make People Feel Important

Isn’t it interesting how the world finds it so easy to tear people down and yet finds it so difficult to build people up? I’m not sure why that happens. I just know that this is true. Ken Blanchard, author of The One Minute Manager Builds High Performing Teams says, “We find it so easy to catch each other doing something wrong. Let’s catch each other doing something right.” And, once you catch someone doing something right—say something about it. Yes—actually say something about it. Notice the right things that people do and say thank you.

People’s worlds—yours, mine—everyone’s is busy. I know. You are pulled in so many different directions. Your attention is splayed in multiple routes all at the same time. Whether at work, in the car, or at home, your attention is rarely totally and completely focused on any one thing.

And, so, it’s difficult to notice when someone is doing something right—or something helpful. For example: Your spouse does the dishes and you don’t even notice. You have to answer that e mail or that text and before you know it, the dishes are done, so you turn your attention to getting the kids ready for bed—without even saying “thanks for helping”. Or, you have multiple phone calls, as well as two patients checking out at the end of the day and the assistant files those last two insurance claims, but you just “assume” that everyone should pitch in and help out so that everyone gets to go home. So, no “hey, thank you”. You have a busy day and your hygienists step up to the plate to provide extra education to patients, answer additional questions, and make sure that the patients schedule that next appointment—but you “assume” that this is what they are supposed to do, so why should you say anything about that????

Why? Because that’s what good leaders do. That’s what good people do. Good leaders–good people notice. Good leaders—good people see things that are well done and say something about it. Good leader—good people hear things that are well said, and acknowledge that. They reinforce that which is good and express appreciation.

Each of us function more effectively in an environment—at home and at work—where we feel appreciated; where our efforts are noticed; where the work we do is valued; and where we feel important.