Praise: A Primer

By now, you'd like to think that most of us understand the power of (sincere) praise in the workplace.  The power of having our efforts and attainments noticed and appreciated.

Do we praise enough?  Do we overlook or shy away from opportunities where a well-deserved encouraging word would go a long way?  If we do, perhaps one reason is uncertainty as to when and how best (and, conversely, how not) to deliver workplace praise.

Here to help, with a simple and elegant primer How do I praise thee? is one of my favorite bloggers, Wally Bock of Three Star Leadership.  Below is an excerpt; please click through to read the post in its entirety.

How do I praise thee? Let me count the ways.

I praise thee soon. Prompt praise is good. Stale praise is not so good.

I praise thee sincerely. Mean what you say, otherwise it's manipulation and very transparent.

I praise thee according to thy preferences. Not everyone likes to be praised in public, but everyone likes to be praised.

And if you're a boss at any level and of any type, don't miss this chance to add Wally's blog to your reading list.

Image: Courtesy of iloverewards.com

Comments

[Derek Irvine, Globoforce]

I, too, greatly enjoyed Wally's piece, Ann. I think the nailed every critical aspect of praise -- specificity, frequency, sincerity -- including what shouldn't be praise -- capacity.

[Ann Bares]

Derek:

I agree - it was wonderfully comprehensive, yet clearly and concisely written. Thanks for the comment!