NEW YORK—While it goes without saying and is something most everyone knows, it needs to be an idea frequently refreshed throughout one’s organization that one very effective way to improve employee relations is by showing appreciation for a job well done. Indeed, studies suggest that the number one thing many employees look for in a job is to receive appreciation when they do good work.

Unfortunately, many managers or supervisors are quicker on the draw to criticize employee mistakes, but slow or completely silent to give praise. When delegating work activities to employees, or providing them with performance coaching or feedback, telling them "thank you" when the job is done costs nothing but a moment of your time. Practicing this behavior consistently will reap huge benefits for you and your organization in the
long run.

—Hedley Lawson, Contributing Editor