I really love getting emails out of the blue, from people I do and do not know who have been impacted by my work.
I’ll never forget when a former NYU student who took my class over a decade before reached out to tell me about a success he had professionally that he attributed to my class. I saved that email!
Recently, someone reached out to tell me they still use something I taught them years ago. They shared how one conversation had changed the way they lead their team and communicate with others.
She wrote “I wanted to tell you that years ago I participated in your Managing for Excellence program and I still use what I learned and share it with others to help them. It was a moment in time, but impactful. I follow your newsletter and enjoy reading the insights you share. Thank you for what you do. Keep adding guidance and positivity into the world and I will do the same!”
I love that last line, and I will do the same, because that’s exactly what she did. I can’t tell you how much that meant to me. Not because it was flattering. Because it reminded me why I do what I do.
It also reminded me of something I believe every leader should practice more often.
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We Often Think It. We Just Don’t Say It.
How many times have you appreciated someone’s effort without actually telling them?
You noticed a colleague handle a difficult client with incredible patience.
A team member stepped up when no one asked.
Your manager gave you an opportunity that changed your career.
We notice these moments. We think about them. But too often, we move on to the next meeting, the next deadline, or the next item on our to-do list.
The appreciation never leaves our thoughts. Unfortunately, it often never reaches the person who needed to hear it.
Recognition Is More Than Saying “Good Job”
When people hear the word recognition, they often think about employee awards, bonuses, or formal appreciation programs. Those things certainly have value.
The recognition people remember most is often much simpler. It’s hearing:
“You made a difference.”
“Here’s how you helped me.”
“I still use something you taught me.”
Specific impact creates lasting meaning. When people understand how their actions affect someone else, they see that their work matters.
And when people know they matter, engagement follows.
Research from Gallup continues to show that employees who receive meaningful recognition are more engaged, more productive, and more likely to stay with their organizations.
Yet many employees still say they don’t receive enough recognition for their contributions.
Appreciation Builds Connection
One of the reasons I love receiving these unexpected emails isn’t simply because they make my day. It’s because they create connection.
The relationship doesn’t end when the workshop ends, or the coaching engagement is over. It continues.
Leadership works the same way.
People remember how you made them feel long after they’ve forgotten the details of a project or meeting. When leaders consistently acknowledge effort, celebrate growth, and point out someone’s impact, they build trust.
And trust is what allows teams to collaborate, innovate, and navigate challenges together.
Connection isn’t built in grand gestures. It’s built in small moments that happen consistently.
Don’t Wait Years to Tell Someone
Here’s something I’ve been wondering about lately. Why do we wait?
If someone has made a positive impact on you, tell them. Today.
Not because they’re expecting it.
- Because they deserve to know.
- Because it will matter to them.
- Because it will strengthen your relationship.
- Because it will make their day.
You never know what someone is carrying or whether your words might arrive at exactly the right moment.
Your Challenge This Week
This week, think of one person who has positively influenced your work or your life.
Maybe they mentored you, supported you, believed in you, taught you something you’ll never forget.
Now do one simple thing… Tell them.
Not with a quick “thanks.” Tell them specifically how they made a difference.
Leadership isn’t only about giving direction. Sometimes the greatest impact we have comes from helping someone realize the impact they’ve already had.
That’s a habit people will never forget.