Diana Denke

Wanting to feel seen, heard and valued is such a basic human need. It is also fairly simple to satisfy. Yet, sharing appreciation and gratitude is one of the most overlooked practices in business cultures. We're so focused on providing 'professional development' and thorough yearly review cycles that enlist one's strengths and development areas that we can forget the simple act of thanking people when they simply do their jobs well. I believe in forming a habit for regular gratitude practice within the organization, encouraging not only supervisor-team but peer-to-peer sharing of appreciation. Even better if it is done in front of the whole team, who can bear witness to the praise.

An example I’ve seen work well is when someone thoroughly researched the company, and added a short presentation to their application on how exactly he/she can add value to the team. Whether it is through describing what they would contribute to existing initiatives, or picking up on some market insights and proposing to solve some of the challenges that the company may be facing. When this is done thoughtfully, and presented well, one can show strategic and analytic thinking. This proactive approach can help one stand out and demonstrate outstanding motivation.

Communication flows in high trust environments, and where people have a bond beyond transactional interactions. Actively foster a culture of high trust. I have found intentionally holding space for a bi-weekly structured gathering where people can express appreciation to each other (in front of the group) share constructive feedback and resolve problems (1:1) and bond socially as a team, is the best communication enhancer there is.

Without clarity in communication, there is no chance to collaborate effectively. It is helpful to remember that how we interpret the same message can vary greatly. Therefore, even if you think you have been clear, it is well worth checking what the other person understood. I like to ask the listener to sum up to me what they have understood, and it is here where different interpretations of the same message can surface.

Traveling for longer periods and living in different cultures is the best mind-opener and empathy-building experience. It helps one realize how many hidden assumptions one operates on, about how the world and others 'should operate', which reflect the norms of that society. But as there are many paths that lead to the mountain tops, there are also many ways in which a healthy, harmonious society can be achieved. And ultimately, on an individual level, we are much more similar than different, everyone wants to be happy, everyone wants their needs met, and live in secure, safe, and peaceful conditions.

Nurturing relationships is all about moving beyond transactional interactions. Are you only reaching out to someone when you need something from them? If so, they won't feel like you're nurturing that relationship. I much prefer checking in with people regularly, even briefly, to say hello; I am here and curious to learn what you have been up to. It lands differently.