Did you know that expressing gratitude can boost workplace happiness, productivity, and retention? A study by researchers at Harvard and Wharton found that employees who received a simple “thank you” from their manager increased their productivity by more than 50%. Yet gratitude is one of the least practiced behaviors in workplaces.

We know that recruiting isn’t just about placing talented candidates. It’s about creating meaningful connections that last. Taking a moment to celebrate the wins—whether it’s a milestone achieved, a colleague who went above and beyond, or simply showing up with your best effort—shifts the dynamic.

This isn’t just good for morale; it’s good for business because employees who feel valued are more likely to stay, collaborate effectively, and bring their best selves to work. In legal recruiting, where relationships are everything, a culture of gratitude isn’t just nice, it’s essential.

Here are some ways to build a culture of gratitude in the workplace:

• Start small but meaningful. A quick thank you email or shout-out in a meeting can go a long way.
• Celebrate accomplishments. Whether big or small, acknowledging milestones fosters a sense of value.
• Make it a habit. You don’t have to wait for anyone else, a daily gratitude journaling practice can get your day off on the right foot.

So, as we head into the holiday season, let’s commit to making gratitude not just an annual practice but a daily one. Thank your team, your clients, your peers—because appreciation doesn’t cost a thing but can mean everything.

Rosa Lopez
Director of Finance and Operations