Offering congratulations tells people who receive the compliment that others celebrate their success. Sharing joy with others propels both parties to a happier and more positive place. The power of offering congratulatory feedback should never be underestimated. It is a booster shot into the arm of any relationship.
As leaders, when we think of offering congratulations, we often make the mistake of believing the act is primarily about the person receiving them. The term congratulations, after all, puts on record the accomplishments of others. But congratulatory feedback actually says a great deal about the congratulations-giver. When we congratulate people, we exclaim loudly that we stand for people and relationships. Offering congratulations tells people they count, and that you are the kind of leader who does the counting.
Too many occasions pass without leaders offering congratulations. Leaders who are not on the lookout for congratulatory-worthy deeds miss dozens of opportunities each month to tell others who they are as leaders. Leaders who go out of their way to find people to congratulate share a reputation of caring and self-confidence. We admire leaders who would take the time to consistently acknowledge others and will do just about anything for them.
It’s time to join the club of serial congratulators. There is always someone in your world who is worthy of a congratulatory message. Find them. Congratulating others as a habit will supercharge your attitude and underline your appreciation for the effort every milestone requires. As legendary coach Geno Auriemma reminds us, “People who have achieved great things and understand how hard it is to be really good at something are the first people to congratulate you.”
