In many offices, appreciation is treated like a rare to have item – displayed economically and offered only on special occasions. A colleague delivers a brilliant presentation, rescues a failing project, or manages a complicated client and what do they get? A polite nod. Maybe a restrained “hmm.”
Sometimes, not even that. You can almost hear the sound of withdrawn praise echoing through the cubicles.
Why is it so hard for some people to appreciate others at work? The answer lies somewhere between ego, insecurity, and a fundamental misunderstanding of leadership. Many believe that acknowledging others somehow reduces their own height—as if saying “You did great” chips away at their authority.
So they guard compliments like trade secrets.
The irony is that genuine appreciation doesn’t diminish influence, it actually multiplies it. A confident leader understands that recognition doesn’t cost power; it creates it. Yet, too many workplaces still confuse toughness with competence. Some managers think keeping everyone slightly anxious will keep them sharp.
They fear appreciation breeds complacency, when in truth, it fuels commitment.
Recognition, used wisely, is the cheapest and most powerful motivational tool available. It costs nothing but sincerity – and a little courage – to express it.
In the corporate jungle, where career ladders often feel like narrow vines, some hesitate to applaud another climber’s view. “If I praise you,” they think, “I admit you’re ahead.” So they say nothing. And that silence becomes a kind of currency too – control disguised as professionalism.
But appreciation isn’t a threat; it’s a regulator. It regulates morale, builds trust, and signals emotional maturity. A culture that celebrates contributions- big or small – doesn’t weaken people; it strengthens the collective backbone.
And let’s be honest-most employees today aren’t starving for snacks or motivational posters. They’re starving for meaning. They don’t need another coffee machine or a “fun Thursday” They need to feel seen, valued, and recognized. A sincere “You did well, and I noticed” can light up a Monday better than caffeine ever could.
In a world of burnout, quiet quitting, passive job searching and performative positivity, appreciation is rebellion in its purest form. It says, “I see your effort, and it matters.” It humanizes leadership in a way that policies never can.
Real power isn’t about keeping others uncertain; it’s about making them feel secure enough to do their best work.
The leaders who understand that a compliment isn’t charity but currency will never run out of influence- or followers.
Sharmin Sultan, the author of this article, is the Chief People Officer (CPO) of GPH Ispat limited.
