08 Nov Why Gratitude Matters in (Global Mobility) Leadership

In today’s fast-paced, high-pressure work environments, employees are facing unprecedented challenges. The rise of remote work, global economic uncertainty, and a relentless wave of layoffs across industries have left many feeling expendable and disconnected. Amid these realities, employee morale is at an all-time low in many organizations.

For leaders navigating these turbulent times, showing gratitude is more important than ever. Expressions of genuine appreciation not only demonstrate care but also serve as a strategic response to boost engagement, resilience, and retention. Global mobility specialists, with their unique role in bridging cultural and organizational gaps, can play a pivotal role in helping leaders understand the power of timely and sincere gratitude.

Why timing matters in showing gratitude

Gratitude is most impactful when it is timely. While thanking employees after a task is completed is valuable, research shows that expressing gratitude before an employee undertakes a challenging or distressing task can have an even greater effect.

In high-stress environments, such as during organizational restructuring or major global assignments, anticipatory gratitude has been shown to help employees feel more connected, purposeful, and resilient. Studies with gig workers similarly revealed that those who received gratitude in advance were more persistent and showed greater resilience compared to those who were thanked afterward.

For leaders, this means that a small shift in timing—expressing gratitude proactively—can significantly influence employee performance and well-being. Global mobility specialists can advocate for this approach, particularly during moments of uncertainty, such as relocations, compliance challenges, or organizational transitions.

The business case for gratitude

Gratitude isn’t just a feel-good practice; it delivers tangible business results. When employees feel valued, they are more motivated, engaged, and less likely to leave their jobs:

• Higher engagement: According to the American Psychological Association, 93% of employees who feel valued are motivated to do their best at work.
• Retention: Only 21% of employees who feel appreciated plan to look for a new job within a year, compared to significantly higher turnover rates among those who feel undervalued.
• Organizational performance: Gratitude fosters teamwork, boosts morale, and drives innovation—all critical to sustaining success in today’s competitive landscape.

These findings make a compelling case for leaders to prioritize gratitude as part of their leadership strategy. Global mobility specialists can position themselves as key advisors in helping leaders integrate gratitude into their daily interactions and organizational culture.

How global mobility specialists can advocate for gratitude

Global mobility specialists can help leaders identify moments when employees are likely to face significant stress or uncertainty. Whether it’s during a major relocation, navigating compliance issues, or balancing cultural integration with performance demands, specialists can highlight the importance of acknowledging these challenges upfront.

Example Pitch:
“When employees prepare for difficult tasks, like relocating internationally or managing a high-stakes project, expressing gratitude beforehand can make them feel supported and motivated. It’s a simple yet powerful way to set the stage for success.”

Provide examples of specific and personalized gratitude

Leaders often hesitate to express gratitude because they fear it will seem insincere. Specialists can guide them on how to make gratitude personal and impactful by tying it to specific behaviors and outcomes.

Example Suggestion:
“Instead of saying, ‘Thank you for your hard work,’ try, ‘Your efforts to overcome the logistical hurdles for this assignment ensured a smooth transition for the team. Your expertise was invaluable.’”

Encourage gratitude before key challenges

Global mobility specialists can identify critical moments when leaders should express gratitude, such as before employees begin a major task or navigate a particularly stressful period.

Example suggestion to Leaders:
“As the team prepares for this merger, expressing gratitude for their dedication now can reinforce their confidence and commitment. A simple ‘thank you’ for their efforts can go a long way.”

Promote a culture of gratitude

Specialists can also advocate for organizational initiatives that embed gratitude into the company culture. From peer recognition programs to dedicated spaces for appreciation, creating an environment where gratitude flows freely can amplify its positive effects.

Example program idea:
“Implementing a ‘Gratitude Spotlight’ during team meetings, where both leaders and team members recognize outstanding contributions, can make appreciation a regular practice.”

Real-life example: advocacy in action

Imagine a global mobility specialist advising a CEO during a round of layoffs. Instead of waiting until the layoffs are complete to address the remaining team, the CEO is encouraged to express gratitude in advance:

“These are challenging times for everyone, and I want to acknowledge the dedication and resilience you’ve shown as we navigate these changes together. Your hard work is deeply appreciated and critical to our future success.”

Following the layoffs, the CEO could continue to reinforce this sentiment through individual follow-ups, ensuring employees feel seen and valued during a period of uncertainty.

Why global mobility specialists are key advocates

Global mobility specialists often witness firsthand the emotional and logistical challenges employees face in high-stakes situations, such as international relocations or organizational shifts. This unique perspective allows them to guide leaders in fostering a culture of gratitude that transcends individual moments and builds long-term resilience.

By positioning gratitude as a leadership tool, specialists can help CEOs and executives understand its transformative impact on morale, engagement, and performance, particularly in today’s volatile work environment.

Conclusion: gratitude as a strategic priority

In times of uncertainty and change, leaders have a unique opportunity to show they care through timely and genuine expressions of gratitude. Global mobility specialists are instrumental in helping leaders recognize the importance of gratitude—not just as an act of kindness, but as a strategic imperative that drives organizational success.

By advocating for anticipatory gratitude, providing actionable strategies, and promoting a culture of recognition, global mobility professionals can empower leaders to create workplaces where employees feel seen, supported, and inspired to thrive. Gratitude isn’t just about saying “thank you.” It’s about making employees feel valued, even in the toughest of times.