The phrase “gratitude unexpressed is gratitude unperceived” holds profound significance. It underscores the importance of not only feeling grateful but also actively communicating that gratitude to colleagues, employees, clients, and partners. Failure to express gratitude can lead to a host of issues in the workplace.

Many times, I think about who I want to express gratitude to and even what I want to say, but then I don’t make the time to do so. Missing these opportunities may cause long-term harm to existing relationships, so make the time to follow through on these thoughts. Even people who don’t like being the center of attention want to know their hard work and good results are noticed and remember, how you express gratitude doesn’t have to be a grand gesture.

At my firm I generally have an idea about how different people like to receive gratitude or praise. It is different from person to person and, of course, is easier to know the better you know someone. This relates to the importance of spending time getting to know people around you, which helps you learn how they are at accepting gratitude or other types of feedback. Learning this about co-workers, let alone clients or business partners, is important for my firm as well as your business.

Unexpressed gratitude can create a sense of unacknowledged effort among employees. When hard work goes unnoticed or unappreciated, it can demotivate and lower morale. Employees who feel their contributions are not valued may become disengaged, leading to decreased productivity and a higher turnover rate.

It also can strain relationships with clients and partners. In a competitive business environment, showing appreciation for your client’s business and loyalty can go a long way in maintaining strong, long-lasting partnerships. When clients or partners don’t feel appreciated, they may be more inclined to explore other options, potentially harming your business’s bottom line.

On the other hand, when gratitude is openly expressed, it fosters a positive work environment. Employees feel valued, motivated, and more committed to their work. Clients and partners appreciate the recognition and are more likely to remain loyal. The act of expressing gratitude not only improves relationships but also contributes to a thriving and successful business, which is why it is essential to remember that gratitude must be articulated to be truly effective.