Ask An Expert Business Series

Welcome to Ask an Expert Business Series with Misty Lambrecht, the owner of Webfoot Marketing and Design, shareing valuable insights based on her extensive 15 years of experience in business startups and advising in Lincoln County. Many businesses struggle with trying to do more with less, whether it's due to a staff shortage or budget constraints. Times are tough for many of us, and in our daily lives, we find ourselves being pulled in

multiple directions, facing various new struggles.

When I am torn between two directions, I naturally gravitate towards things that make me happy and people who show appreciation, kindness, and thankfulness. Working for kind individuals is so much easier than working for someone who merely expects everything

without acknowledgment. I find it motivating and rewarding to work early into the morning to complete a project for someone who consistently offers kind words, expresses gratitude, and

acknowledges my efforts. I am more inclined to prioritize jobs for people who say thank you. It's far less straightforward with those who request something and leave you wondering if they even received the email, text, or phone call asking them to review the completed project.

It feels awkward to call again to ask if they saw the completed work and if they are satisfied with it. The world has shifted towards expectations rather than basic courtesies. In my experience, I've worked in environments with high expectations and pushed hard to achieve ambitious goals. While working diligently to exceed expectations, going the extra mile, and dedicating weekends to projects for the betterment of the team, a simple thank you, a small note, or a team email expressing gratitude for my contribution can be the reason and motivation to aim for higher goals.

Simple gestures that don't cost money can hold more significance than financial rewards for many people. I've spoken to numerous individuals who, when asked why they don't seek better-paying jobs, respond with, "I like it here." Most of the time, this positive sentiment is directly related to the organizations positive culture. I believe people are more willing to do more and work harder when they feel appreciated, acknowledged, and thanked.

Sometimes, we get so caught up in our routines that we forget to acknowledge what may seem like small things.

Saying "thank you" and appreciating an employee who consistently unlocks the office and

makes coffee on days when you are running late might be what motivates them to stay, especially when their life outside of work may be overwhelming. When deadlines loom and pressure builds, it's crucial to remember how much harder it would be without the support

of a team, including family, friends, employees, and even strangers. Expressing gratitude and acknowledging the support can go a long way in creating a positive and motivated environment.