Gratitude is an important factor in leading change, especially when you are leading change without authority. After all, no one actually has to do what you say, do they? Luckily, there is an extremely simple and sincere way to express gratitude: Say “thank you.”
If someone gives you their time and attention, say “thank you.”
If someone tries something new, say “thank you.”
If someone tells you why this will never work, say “thank you.”
If someone sticks their neck out for you, say “thank you.”
If someone shares their opinion or feedback, solicited or not, say “thank you.”
If someone lends you their expertise, say “thank you.”
If someone invites you to a meeting, say “thank you.”
If someone provides an idea, say “thank you.”
If someone listens to you, say “thank you.”
Organizational change never happens alone. Show appreciation for those who are going on the journey with you, and even those who want to block your path. As a change agent, “Thank you” should be the most common phrase you utter.
(Thank you for reading.)
Read more of the 99 Ways to Influence Change.