Arlen Busenitz gave an awesome 22-minute ED talk at this weekend’s conference on the value of Appreciation.

Arlen had three specific keys to showing appreciation:

1. Be Specific – everyone shouldn’t be “great”
2. Be Sincere – eye contact and pause. Second technique – Wave and leave. (Don’t use praise to lead into a criticism or request)
3. Be Special (or sticky) – thank you card, follow-up, or use the grapevine

On the flip side, don’t be afraid to accept appreciation. No need to say things like, “it wasn’t that much”.

Challenge: At least seven times a day show appreciation. Be specific, sincere and special!