Exploring Grateful Leadership Philosophy & Impact

2. What is Grateful Leadership? Servant leadership was introduced in 1964 Grateful leadership is a new vision that complements Robert Greenleaf’s philosophy. “If you really listen to your colleagues and figure out how to get them what they need, they will perform at a higher level, which improves the customer experience, which affects business results.” Ken Keith, CEO of the Greenleaf Center For Servant Leadership.

3. Grateful Leadership philosophy “On an ongoing basis, Grateful Leaders are those who see, recognize, and express appreciation and gratitude for their employees’ and other stakeholders’ contributions and for their passionate engagement.” Judith W. Umlas Senior Vice President, International Institute for Learning.

4. Does it make a difference?

5. Recognition vs. Acknowledgment Is appreciation for an action Is appreciation to a person for who they are • What they do to help meet deadlines. • The quality of their work. • Their commitment. • Their responsiveness. • What you admire and inspire you about them. • What you see in them that they may not see on themselves. • Their value to the team and the organization.

6. The Strengths of the book It is a very optimistic, encouraging, and persuasive book. I felt and understood the author’s true feelings about the topic. The profiles and stories included in the reading supports the philosophy of the book. It also, helps the reader to reflect about their own situation and/or form of leadership. “ From travels all over the world delivering keynote addresses and training sessions on leadership and the power of acknowledgement, I now know, and I have the evidence to support it, that acknowledgment is a skill we all have and it is one we all want to demonstrate.” Judith W. Umlas Author

8. Seven Principles of Acknowledgment #1 Acknowledgment is deserve by many, but received by few. #2 Acknowledgment builds trust and creates powerful interactions. #3 Acknowledgment can help diffuse jealousy and envy. #4 Acknowledgment energize people, lack of acknowledgment diminishes them. “Gratitude is an elevating force that links corporations to humanity, thus strengthening relationships that are instrumental to corporate success. There is no question that the spread of Grateful leadership will improve business by enhancing relationships between people.” Dough Rauch CEO of Conscious Capitalism

9. #5 Acknowledgment can make a profound difference in a person’s life and work. #6 Acknowledgment improves physical and emotional well-being. #7 Acknowledgment needs to be practice in different ways. “ Grateful leaders believe in people’s potential and the value of each and every person they employ or rely upon, and these leaders help them recognize their full potential. You have to understand people’s strengths and interests and appreciate what motivates them” Kimberly Supersano Chief Marketing Officer, Prudential Annuties

10. Forms of Acknowledgement Written: A letter is a good source of acknowledgment. Specially, because the person can always go back and read it at any given time. Verbal: An acknowledgment can be express verbally, in private or at a meeting. “ Acknowledgment, by my definition, is the heartfelt and authentic communication that lets people know their value to their organization or to their team and the importance of the contribution they make.” Judith W. Umlas

11. 5/5/2013 Hi Melanie and Jason: I hope this letter is not misinterpreted . This is not with any purpose other than acknowledging your great performance as managers and team leaders. As I have probably mentioned to you guys before, I’m working on an organizational management program. As a way of learning and understanding different types of organizat ions, I’m constantly comparing both, my p ostal job and Levity. That is how I have learned to admire your management style . Today, I finished reading a book called “Grateful leadership” by Judith Umlas. This book taught me the importance of acknowledgement and I want to work on my skills to recognize and acknowledge others. I chose you guys because I recognize your effort to guarantee a n excellent experience for each customer . I remember one occasion when Jason emphasized how significant is to have clean Ke tchup bottles. That showed me how important is to pay attention to small details to be successful. But more importantly, because I value and respect your communication and understanding with the employees. You guys are always willing to listen and accommo date your staff, an d in multiple occasions I have heard both, Melanie and Jason giving the employees positive feedbacks. This feeling of admiration is the reason why I continue to work for Levity. At times , I have felt very overwhelmed due to my excessive work load and have considered quitting, but more than a salary I’m gaining a positive learning experience by observing your work . I noticed my lack of involvement at the comedy club and unfortunately, I m ight not be there long, but I hope that you guys co ntinue your great job as team leaders and that Levity continues to grow. Thanks Diana Rodriguez The outcome of my writing

12. Always remember: “Acknowledging is contagious!”