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Everyday Recognition and Leadership

Recognition at WVU is most powerful when it’s woven into our daily work.

Whether you’re a colleague or a leader, taking time to acknowledge others’ efforts builds connection, trust, and motivation. Below are practical ways you can show appreciation every day, model gratitude as a leader, and use strengths-based recognition to make appreciation more meaningful. Recognition doesn’t need to be complicated. Whether you’re saying thank you, modeling gratitude as a leader, or connecting through strengths, intentional acts of appreciation make a lasting impact at WVU.

Everyday Ways to Show Appreciation

  • SAY THANKS OFTEN. Give genuine, specific thanks frequently.
  • CELEBRATE MILESTONES. Recognize work anniversaries, promotions, and project completions.
  • ASK PREFERENCES. Ask team members how they like to be recognized.
  • ENCOURAGE PEER KUDOS. Use email, cards, or a team whiteboard.
  • START TRADITIONS. Create rituals like Monthly Spotlight, Friday Wins, or a Gratitude Jar.
  • FORMAL RECOGNITION. Nominate colleagues for campus awards and programs.

Leadership as a Model

Leaders set the tone for a culture of appreciation. Make recognition part of your leadership practice by:

  • Modeling gratitude daily: Small, frequent thank-yous go a long way.
  • Recognizing both effort and outcomes: Acknowledge hard work even if results are still in progress.
  • Creating space for celebration: Carve out time in meetings or events for reflection and appreciation.
  • Supporting growth: Professional development can be a powerful form of recognition.

Focus on Strengths

At WVU, CliftonStrengths® helps us recognize the unique talents each person brings. Use strengths as a lens for appreciation by:

  • Name the Strength - Be specific: “Your Strategic thinking helped us move forward quickly.”
  • Tie Strengths to Impact - Show how a strength made a difference: “Your Empathy helped calm the team.”
  • Look Beyond Results - Celebrate how the work got done, not just the outcome.
  • Use Strengths Language Often - Normalize appreciation by speaking the language of strengths regularly.
  • Additional Resources - Visit the Purpose Center to explore strengths-based development further.