The holiday season is here, and you may be thinking about how to acknowledge the end of this hectic year with the team that supports you. 

There’s one thing I can assure you is on every one of your team members’ wish lists, and yet won’t cost you a thing.

Recognition and gratitude from the boss is the gift your people are craving.  

I know, you thought I was going to say Taylor Swift tickets (like you could get them!) If your budget supports it, by all means a bonus or gift, like a prepaid gas card, would be welcome. But don’t overlook the one gift that will be remembered long after the holiday season has passed, and that is the feeling that they are seen; that their contributions are noticed and valued; and that they are appreciated. 

You might think that your team members already know how much you appreciate them. You’d be wrong. Here’s why. 

According to research shared by Harvard Business Review, there’s a significant gap between managers’ and employees’ perceptions. It’s called the “illusion of transparency” – or people’s tendency to overestimate how visible their emotions are to others. Simply stated, most managers assume their employees know how much they are appreciated. Most team members do not, in fact, know anything of the sort. 

So, this holiday season here’s an idea. Schedule a quiet conversation with every person who reports to you, one on one. If you can swing it, hold this conversation off-site such as over lunch or coffee (or eggnog!) If you want to bring a gift to that conversation, great. But more important than a scented candle or yet another insulated mug will be the time you spend with them. Be prepared to share a list of the contributions they made this year. Get specific. Here’s an example:

“Marty, on average, you conquered 35 service requests every week…that’s almost 2,000 customer service interactions you delivered this year, and we couldn’t have done it without you. Thank you.” 

I know you’re busy, but this is important. And do you know what else? It’s good for business. Psychologist Adam Grant’s research finds that when people experience gratitude from their manager, they’re more productive. Not only that, but they are also more likely to stay. This is critical because I know the last thing you need on your team is more turnover. 

As 2022 barrels to the finish line, set time aside to share sincere expressions of gratitude with every member of your team, and let that be a habit you carry into the New Year. Happy holidays!