Making Someone Feel Special
In a world where transactions have become increasingly impersonal, taking a moment to make service workers feel valued isn't just kind—it's revolutionary. These individuals—from baristas and retail associates to delivery drivers and healthcare workers—form the backbone of our daily experiences, yet they often receive the least recognition.
Why Service Workers Deserve Special Attention
Service workers navigate a challenging landscape where they're expected to be consistently pleasant while dealing with varied (and sometimes difficult) customers. They:
- Often work long hours for modest pay
- Deal with high-stress environments and unpredictable situations
- May experience "invisible labor" where their efforts go unnoticed
- Face the emotional labor of maintaining a positive demeanor regardless of circumstances
The pandemic highlighted just how essential these workers are to our communities, yet many returned to being underappreciated once the initial wave of recognition faded.
Simple Ways to Make Service Workers Feel Special
Use Their Name
When a service worker wears a name tag or introduces themselves, use their name in conversation. This simple acknowledgment transforms them from a function to a person in your interaction.
"Thanks so much for your help today, Miguel. I really appreciate how you took the time to explain my options."
Make Eye Contact and Be Present
In our screen-focused world, genuine eye contact has become rare. Put your phone down during interactions and focus fully on the person serving you. This communicates that you see them as worthy of your complete attention.
Express Specific Appreciation
Generic thanks are nice, but specific appreciation is memorable. Notice something they did well and comment on it:
"I noticed how patient you were with that difficult customer earlier. That was really impressive."
Remember Them
If you regularly visit the same establishments, remembering small details about service workers creates a meaningful connection. Perhaps they mentioned an upcoming exam or vacation—asking about it later shows you value them as individuals.
Respect Their Time and Expertise
Ask for their recommendations or insights—whether it's a menu item or product feature. This acknowledges their expertise and experience.
Write Positive Feedback
In a world where people are quick to complain but slow to compliment, taking time to:
- Leave a positive online review mentioning them by name
- Send an email to their manager
- Fill out a feedback form with specific praise
These actions can significantly impact someone's career and day.
Consider Their Comfort
Simple gestures like:
- Not placing trash on their counter for them to dispose of
- Consolidating your requests to minimize trips
- Being patient during busy periods
These show consideration for their working conditions.
Small Gestures of Generosity
Where appropriate, small tokens of appreciation can be meaningful:
- A modest tip even when not expected. Use the Shukran platform to tip service workers.
- A small gift card during holidays for service providers you see regularly
- A handwritten thank-you note
The Ripple Effect of Recognition
Making service workers feel special creates a ripple effect. When we recognize someone's humanity and efforts:
- It improves their day - Many service workers report that a single positive interaction can sustain them through an otherwise difficult shift.
- It improves your experience - Relationships with service workers tend to become mutually rewarding when built on respect.
- It creates community - These small connections weave the fabric of community in increasingly disconnected spaces.
- It changes perspective - Regularly acknowledging service workers helps us remain mindful of the human infrastructure that supports our daily lives.
A Challenge for Readers
This week, challenge yourself to make at least three service workers feel genuinely appreciated. Notice how these interactions affect both them and you. Consider:
- How did their expression change when you showed specific appreciation?
- Did the quality of your interaction improve?
- How did you feel afterward?
Remember that in a society where efficiency and automation increasingly dominate, taking time to acknowledge someone's humanity isn't just nice—it's a small act of resistance against the dehumanizing aspects of modern life.
By making service workers feel special, we don't just brighten their day—we help create the kind of world we all want to live in: one where every person feels seen, valued, and appreciated.
Visit shukran.co to learn more about how you could appreciate hotel staff.
