Karen’s Articles
Turning Gratitude Into Strategy
According to WorldatWork, 81% of employees who feel recognized report high job satisfaction, compared to only 7% of those who don’t. Teams that consistently express appreciation experience better collaboration, creativity, and retention. And organizations that...
What Happens When Appreciation Fails?
Recognition when delivered poorly can destroy trust! Research tells us that recognition is only effective when it’s personal, timely, and fair1. A delayed or generic “Great work!” may feel nice for a moment, but rarely changes how people feel about their job. In...
The Science Behind “Thank You”
We all know appreciation feels good, but did you know that it’s also good business? A study by Quantum Workplace found that employees who believe they’ll be recognized are 2.7 times more likely to be highly engaged. Organizations with strong recognition cultures...
Happy Thanksgiving 2025
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oSpTbqcB2CY This Thanksgiving, I'm especially grateful for the relationships that make work meaningful. Warm wishes for a holiday filled with connection and comfort.
The Power of Appreciation in Action
Last week, I had the privilege of working with a team that was new to me, yet led by someone I had previously coached. That connection made all the difference. From the moment I arrived, there was a foundation of trust and synergy that carried through the entire...
The Art of Everyday Appreciation
Every November, my yoga teacher reminds us that it’s Appreciation Month. I always smile because if you have been receiving my newsletter, you know I’m an appreciation devotee. I write about it often. Recently, however, I’ve noticed that when I conduct a program and...
Boo! The Frightening Truth About Workplace Behaviors That Haunts Me
It’s spooky season, but what really sends chills down my spine isn’t ghosts or ghouls, it’s workplace behaviors that break trust. When you say one thing and do another You tell me you’re putting my name in for a promotion, but the paperwork gathers dust. You...
Amanda Haddaway: Building Legacy Through HR, Writing, and Passion
I met Amanda Haddaway, CEO of HR Answerbox, almost a decade ago when she attended a Society of Human Resources Professionals program where I presented. Amanda has that lovely presence that makes you know she is listening and remembering everything you say. In her...
What to Do When You Feel Like You’re Cracking: More Strategies
If you’ve seen yourself or your workplace reflected in this series on Quiet Cracking, it’s worth taking note. This week, we’ll explore additional steps to foster a healthier mindset in the workplace. Expose Yourself to Positivity Seek out colleagues who are still...
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