Recognition as a Leadership Inspiration - Does Expressing Gratitude Lead to More Impact Than Traditional Benefit Schemes?
In the dynamic world of business, the Swiss consultancy firm, Ben Schulz & Partner AG, stands out as a beacon of innovation for the German SME sector. Recipient of the 'Innovator of the Year' award in 2025, the firm specialises in crafting tailored solutions for management consulting and entrepreneurship, with a focus on future-proofing companies through clear strategies.
One such strategy, championed by the author of the Spiegel bestseller 'Leadership als Hoffnung' (Leadership as a beacon of hope), Ben Schulz, is the power of gratitude. Contrary to popular belief, gratitude arises from direct contact and plays a crucial role in leadership at eye level.
Research has shown that small gestures like a simple 'thank you' or sincere praise have noticeable effects on motivation and performance. These gestures, whether it's a brief thank-you at the start of a meeting, a handwritten note, or spontaneous praise among colleagues, can have a lasting impact. The 'witnessing effect' further highlights this, demonstrating that such gestures not only motivate the recipient but also inspire third parties who witness them.
Leadership, according to Ben Schulz & Partner AG, is embodied by a respectful tone, open listening, and honest recognition. Rejecting or dismissing this idea may miss the most important lever for genuine self-leadership. Leaders who live gratitude tend to foster open communication and increase the innovation power of their team. Recognition from above is as important as acknowledging employees, as it builds trust and shows that relationships in the workplace are not a one-way street.
Simple rituals can help ensure that gratitude becomes a core part of corporate culture. For instance, leadership can start in small ways, such as buying a loaf of bread for a colleague in need or taking a moment to express appreciation for a job well done. The more regularly these impulses are set, the more they shape the culture, and the less leadership needs to intervene with elaborate programs.
However, it's not just about the leaders. In a nationwide survey, 41% of employees reported feeling undervalued at work. This underscores the importance of gratitude in fostering a positive work environment. Leadership relationships are based on trust, not hierarchy, and gratitude acts as a catalyst for creativity, breaks down barriers, and creates psychological safety.
In conclusion, the power of gratitude in the realm of leadership cannot be overstated. It's a simple yet effective tool that can help future-proof companies by fostering a positive, productive, and innovative work environment. Headquartered in Zurich, Ben Schulz & Partner AG continues to lead the way in demonstrating the transformative power of gratitude in business.
