PERSONAL /THANKS SPECIAL... Power of thank you

Power of thank you   These two words carry clout, in business and in a marriage.  Here's how to make sure you use this ammo to your benefit A recent survey by the University of Georgia emphasises what we always knew -that the secret to a happy marriage is by expressing gratitude to your partner. Understandably, it's a habit that could help you enormously at work as well. How often do you actually say thank you? We're not talking about the obligatory “thank you“ you dish out to the grocer or mailman. We're talking about a true recognition of a job well done. Recognising colleagues and juniors creates a positive atmosphere and pushes them to deliver good results. Happy employees do good business. But, you need to make sure the praise is delivered sincerely. Here's how: Be specific When a co -worker goes above and beyond the call of duty, thanks is in order. But, don't just say “thank you.“ If you're specific  in what you're thanking them for, it is much more effective. Tell them how much their efforts helped you or the team and how  they are an asset to the company. This positive recognition will push the employee to excel because their hard work isn't being ignored. In the moment Expressing gratitude, to your colleague or your wife, three months later won't work. Sure, it's better late than never, but delaying thanks doesn't really hit home the fact that their contribution is being valued. The best time to hand out praise is as soon as you think it. Your feelings of gratitude will fade over time and the compliment may seem halfhearted. Express thanks in the moment or soon after. It's about them Try to remember that the praise needs to be directed at them. While you may think you're showering them with compliments, you're actually just talking about yourself. Statements such as “You helped me“ or “I don't know what I would have done “ speak more about you. Offering phrases such as “you have a lot of patience“ or “you really have good ideas“ has more personal emotion attached. The “thank you“ comes across as sincere. Body language When you're handing out praise, what you do is as important as what you actually say. Standing in a defensive pose, with your arms crossed, isn't going to make you approachable. Instead of seeming pleased, you're actually sulking. Make it a point to maintain eye contact. Stand tall and relaxed. If you're uncomfortable, practice doing it. These small actions can make all the difference. Go retro Old school is gold. Skip Facebook, email or text messages when  saying thank you. Doing it face to face is great, but an old-fashioned note is also a good idea. Many colleagues even keep the note and you know what that would mean to your wife girlfriend. Don't dismiss the power of thanks. Hand it out -it's free. glynda alves ETP 12NOV15