“It’s an incredible feeling knowing you’ve had a tremendous impact on the career and lives of so many people,” the VP said. “I confess: It’s been an emotional few days.”
And then, he retired.
Imagine if he had known sooner. What could have been created had he learned of the difference he made while he was still leading – and stayed with the company for another decade?
It’s not normal to tell someone: “I appreciate you, and here’s why . . .” We typically wait for the employee to signal their departure before we communicate our appreciation.
These are the norms that drain our energy and suppress teams into long bouts of mediocrity. It’s insane to build someone’s esteem and confidence as they walk out the door. We need the strength of their character now… not later.
This week choose not to be normal. Inform that person next to you, in real-time, why you appreciate them – even if they’re not leaving the team.
[bctt tweet=”“It’s insane to build someone’s esteem and confidence as they walk out the door.” -Craig Ross”]
Image courtesy of Stuart Miles at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
