How do you show appreciation?
Appreciation can be shown any number of ways. As a leader, it is important to give back and thank those who work hard for you every day. Your team must know they are appreciated and their efforts do not go unnoticed. Throughout my many years of coaching and being a role model, I have compiled some ways I consistently showed my appreciation. Make sure you look through them and let me know your favorites. Enjoy.
- Create a family atmosphere. This is a special method I used to become a little more personal with my team. I would send birthday cards and provide written congratulations if they accomplished something great outside of basketball.
- Send out personalized notes. In today’s day and age, it is very easy to send out some sort of congratulations via text, email, social media, etc. Give the extra effort when the opportunity presents itself.
- Reward your values. If you emphasize getting in early, make sure you recognize those who arrive 30 minutes early. Whatever you preach as your core values, make sure you look out for those who are demonstrating it. What are you values?
- Celebrate success. At gatherings, practice, or meetings. Make sure you are taking some time to celebrate the success of your team throughout the year as well. Working hard is great, but make sure they are recognized for it as well.
- Outside events. The more you can surprise your team with random events/activities the better. Take them to the movies, play games at unelected times, and surprise them with new things. This will create a fun atmosphere where everyone wants to participate.
Did You Know? Coach Jim Johnson is speaking to the girls varsity basketball team at Churchville-Chili High School in early December.
Life Tip #8: Treat people better than how you want to be treated
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