Have you ever seen the greeting card showing a picture of a person waiting for a gold medal after vacuuming? Highly amusing for anyone in your household who avoids housework, assuming that’s not you!

Whilst there is often an element of truth in humour, the truth of this matter is: if we want people to behave in ways that support us, we may not need to go as far as a gold medal but acknowledging their efforts will go a long way.

Too often people confuse acknowledgement with flattery. To be clear, flattery is insincere praise whereas acknowledgement is specific and evidence-based recognition. Acknowledgement sounds like, ‘you are so detail-orientated, I really appreciate your accuracy’ or ‘you are considerate, it was kind of you to arrive prepared for this meeting’.

Most of us are so quick to criticise. However, if we publicly and positively acknowledge others specifically it’s more likely they (and others) will repeat the behaviours we desire. It generally works in any environment, domestic or professional.

You’re welcome.