A recent study surveyed 2,000 American professionals and found that a mere 10% of bosses acted on the impulse to thank employees for their efforts in the workplace. This article from the Washington Post cites gratitude shown by leaders as a source of boosted morale and increased productivity in the workplace.
Not only do small gestures such as verbal acknowledgements or lunch outings boost employee morale, but they also enhance engagement. As employees' sense of ownership develops, confidence in a job well done progresses into loyalty.