5 Ways to Show Gratitude as a Leader this Holiday Season

As we enter the holiday season, for most of us, the spirit of gratitude becomes more pronounced in both our personal and professional lives. Thus, taking a moment to consider how business leaders can harness the spirit of the season to help improve employee engagement seems warranted. Why you might ask? The simple answer is that empolyees with higher engagement can increase company productivity by 22% and profitability by 21%.

In addition, expressing gratitude to employees can have a powerful, positive impact on team morale and organizational culture, fostering a work environment where employees feel valued and motivated. When leaders and colleagues openly acknowledge efforts and achievements, it not only boosts individual morale but also strengthens overall employee engagement. This, in turn, can lead to enhanced business performance as people feel more connected to their roles and committed to contributing to shared goals. Regular gratitude practices reinforce a culture of appreciation, creating a ripple effect that supports both personal and organizational growth.

Here are five effective ways leaders can show gratitude during the holidays and beyond.

1. Model Authenticity
   Authenticity is the cornerstone of effective leadership. As a leader, your actions set the tone for your organization. Thus, it’s important to show genuine gratitude by expressing appreciation for your team’s hard work, successes, and individual contributions. One avenue is to share personal anecdotes that highlight your journey and the role others have played in it. This not only makes your gratitude feel more sincere but also allows your team to see the human side of leadership.

   For instance, take the time to publicly acknowledge specific team members during meetings or through internal communication channels. Highlight their achievements and the positive impact they have on your organization. This practice not only reinforces your appreciation but also encourages a culture of recognition, making everyone feel valued.

2. Create Opportunities for Gratitude Feedback or “Praise Bucket”
   During the holidays, consider hosting a “gratitude roundtable” where team members can express what they are thankful for in their work environment and suggest ways to enhance their experiences. This exercise not only fosters a sense of belonging but also aligns with core company values such as openness and collaboration. By genuinely listening and responding to feedback, you cultivate an atmosphere where everyone feels empowered to contribute to the organization’s culture of success.

   Encourage team members to share specific examples of support, teamwork, or achievements they’ve appreciated, and create a space for giving “shout-outs” to colleagues. This shared appreciation not only boosts morale but also reinforces a culture of recognition and positive reinforcement. When people feel seen and valued, they’re more likely to feel invested in both their work and the wellbeing of their coworkers—strengthening the team as a whole.

3. Celebrate Together
   The holiday season is an ideal time to celebrate collective achievements. Organize team building activities or holiday events that allow everyone to come together, share stories, and express gratitude.

   Incorporate activities that align with your organization’s core values. For example, consider a charitable initiative where your team can give back to the community. This not only spreads gratitude externally but also fosters teamwork and a shared sense of purpose and meaning. Celebrating together is a powerful way to reinforce a culture of gratitude while honoring the contributions of every team member individually.

4. Express Gratitude in Writing
   In the digital age, a simple thank you email can go a long way. During the holidays, take the time to write personalized notes to your team members, acknowledging their specific contributions by expressing your appreciation. This personal touch reinforces your commitment to recognizing individual efforts and can significantly boost morale.

   Consider including a note about how each person’s work aligns with the company’s core values. By linking gratitude to the larger mission of the organization, you create a deeper sense of purpose and connection. Additionally, sharing these notes in a public forum, such as a company newsletter or team meeting, amplifies their impact and encourages others to practice gratitude as well.

5. Lead by Understanding Each Individual on Your Team
   During the holiday season, taking the time to understand each team member as an individual can make a significant impact. Every person has unique strengths, motivations, and personal commitments, especially during this busy time of year. By recognizing and appreciating these differences, you show your team that they are valued not just for their work but for who they are as people.

   A small gesture, like checking in personally or adjusting workloads to accommodate holiday schedules, demonstrates empathy and flexibility. These thoughtful actions go a long way in building a positive team culture where people feel respected and understood, making it easier for everyone to bring their best selves to work.

Leading with gratitude during the holiday season—and throughout the year—cultivates a thriving organizational culture grounded in positive core values and authenticity. By modeling genuine appreciation, creating opportunities for feedback, celebrating collective achievements, expressing gratitude in writing, and leading by understanding each individual team member, you not only uplift your team but also inspire a ripple effect of positivity throughout the organization.

Written by Bronce J. Rice, PsyD, MSW.
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