Last week, during a coaching session with one of my clients, they shared a story that made me pause—and smile.
Every day, one of their employees is the first to arrive at the office. He quietly brews a fresh pot of coffee, ensuring it’s ready when his teammates walk through the door. But here’s the twist—he doesn’t drink it. He brings his own coffee from home.
He’s not making coffee for himself. He’s doing it for the team.
This simple, thoughtful act is a living example of one of the company’s core values: Teamwork. It’s not flashy or loud. It’s not driven by recognition or reward. It’s an everyday gesture that makes a difference in how people feel walking into work.
I pointed out to my client that this was a golden opportunity to recognize this employee—not with a bonus or a trophy, but with a sincere “thank you” and a nod to how his behavior is aligned with the team’s values. Recognition like this is powerful, free, and often overlooked.
Why Recognition Matters (And What the Data Says)
- According to a Gallup workplace report, employees who receive regular recognition are 4x more likely to be engaged at work.
- A study by OC Tanner found that 79% of employees who quit their jobs cite a lack of appreciation as a key reason.
- And research published in the Harvard Business Review highlights that companies with high-recognition cultures have 31% lower voluntary turnover rates.
Recognition isn’t just a feel-good gesture—it’s a business strategy. It boosts morale, deepens loyalty, and reinforces the behaviors that drive team performance.
Core Values Aren’t Just Words on a Wall
One of the most impactful ways to build a positive culture is to tie praise back to Core Values. When people are acknowledged for living out your values, those values become more than buzzwords—they become the fabric of how your team works.
That’s why in my coaching, I help leaders:
- Clarify and define meaningful Core Values,
- Communicate them clearly across the organization,
- And weave them into team rhythms, recognition, and decision-making.
When recognition is rooted in shared values, it doesn’t just make people feel good—it also builds alignment and trust.
Practical Takeaways You Can Implement Today
Want to boost morale without spending a dime? Here are three things you can start doing immediately:
- Catch People Doing the Right Thing
Look for everyday behaviors that reflect your values. It doesn’t have to be big—consistency beats grand gestures. - Make Recognition Specific and Values-Based
“Thanks for helping” is nice. “Thank you for showing Teamwork by staying late to help the new hire feel supported” is better. It reinforces what matters most. - Build It Into Your Routine
Start meetings with a “values shoutout.” Use Slack or email to call out great examples. Encourage peer-to-peer recognition so it’s not just top-down.
Back to the Coffee
When we slow down and notice the quiet contributors—the people who make coffee, clean up the breakroom, welcome others with a smile—we’re not just giving compliments. We’re shaping culture.
So, who on your team deserves recognition today?
And more importantly—do your people know what your Core Values are, and how to live them?
If not, that’s something I can help with. Let’s build a culture where people feel seen, values come alive, and performance follows naturally.
Want to learn more about how I help businesses implement practical leadership strategies like Core Values, recognition, and team accountability? Let’s connect.
Believe Grow Glow 