Appreciation
In the fall, Goswin and Karina, as representatives of LSU, held a workshop with the section on "appreciation".
Johannes and Hans-Peter did the same in Flakkebjerg. Here, we learned about praise (highlighting something), recognition (of specific achievements), and appreciation (focused on the person).
We did an exercise listing suggestions within six themes and allocated points. Suggestions were many – no fewer than 98 across themes – and here are the top scorers:
- How and when do we best succeed with appreciation in our organization?
When people are appreciated for their skills and not just for specific achievements. - How and when could we benefit from showing more appreciation?
For example, by providing more biographical details about new employees in Biweekly. - If we did this, what effect would it hopefully have?
Safer space and openness towards sharing things – even negative ones. - What is appreciated in our group?
Initiative for celebrations and social events, committee work, TAP work, questions. - What could we, with benefit, appreciate more?
Failed attempts and mistakes (e.g., applications and articles), different opinions and perspectives. - Is there anything we should stop appreciating?
Work far beyond regular working hours and work during leave (the clear top scorer).
A very nice exercise, and the large number of suggestions confirms that possibilities are many. Personally, I noted that praise and recognition are fine – no need to hold back – but appreciation is about more. It is also about respect and creating the best possible conditions for a safe environment where people are seen, heard, and who can influence their own situation. As a leader, it is of course an important part of my responsibility to ensure this. But fortunately, there is enough responsibility for all, also project managers, supervisors, buddies, or just colleagues, can contribute.
We will revisit the list of suggestions for a long time, and at the next section meeting, we will talk about “the good plan”, which, when fully realized, is likely the best and most appreciated form of respect and appreciation one can give TAP staff.
Huge praise for, recognition and appreciation (😊) of Goswin's and Karina's efforts in hosting a truly excellent workshop! And the same for Johannes and Hans-Peter’s efforts in Flakkebjerg.