Quality Gratitude Expressions and Happiness at Work

Abstract

This research involved a mixed-methods study to explore the nature and outcomes of gratitude expressions in the workplace. A qualitative journaling study revealed that quality gratitude expressions in the workplace involve the following traits: genuine, acknowledgement of positive outcomes, acknowledgement of time and effort, acknowledgement of social support, personalized, and playful. The interview study revealed that key outcomes of quality gratitude expressions were feeling valued, a sense of attachment, and engagement. A follow-up survey of professionals showed that while the quality and quantity of verbal gratitude expressions contribute to higher perceptions of feeling valued and attachment to colleagues, the quality and quantity of written gratitude expressions contribute to all three aspects of happiness: feeling valued, attachment, and engagement. These findings suggest that gratitude expressions are aspects of positive communication that contribute significantly to thriving individuals and communities in the workplace.