Sometimes, Bosses Need Human-Relations Lesson

Q I am a construction supervisor and work for a boss who doesn’t know how to say “thank you” to his employees. He also has never given anyone a bonus, even though we have made him a lot of money. Should I say something to him?

--L.K., Temecula

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A Talk to your boss. Tell him that it won’t cost him anything to recognize when his workers have done a good job, and that they will appreciate it.

Sometimes, managers simply don’t think about thanking employees or haven’t learned to show gratitude at work (or at home). Research has shown that even a simple, sincere “thanks” can go a long way toward improving workers’ motivation.

--Ron Riggio, director

Kravis Leadership Institute

Claremont McKenna College

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