#schongenial: What does appreciation mean to you?
Thomas Marxrieser: Accepting and respecting your counterpart. For me, however, it is important for lasting appreciation beyond an initial meeting that my counterpart represents basic values similar to those I feel are right in order to be able to express sincere appreciation such as honesty, friendliness, loyalty, respect and trust.
#schongenial: How is appreciation actually practised in your company?
Thomas Marxrieser: I'll answer that from my personal perspective and try to establish it in the company - especially when new team members join. A "please and thank you" must always be included. We work as a team and offer our help so that we can celebrate successes together. When problems arise, it's important to take time for them and, above all, to listen. I am happy to hand over responsibility so that my team members can "grow" and I encourage my colleagues to do the same among themselves. I endeavour to keep the hierarchy as flat as possible and make it clear that every position is equally important to me for our joint success. And I very often emphasise that the "little things we take for granted", such as cleaning and simple order processing, are immensely important for everyone's well-being. We also regularly celebrate successes in order to appreciate the work that has been done.
#schongenial: In your opinion, what impact does appreciation have on the operational business?
Thomas Marxrieser: I am convinced that appreciation increases motivation and personal commitment. A strong team that appreciates each other and our customers can move mountains and excel instead of breaking down, especially when faced with challenges. By practising appreciation, I have the chance to "bind" my colleagues more strongly to our company out of genuine conviction. In my opinion, better figures and results are then a self-fulfilling side effect.
#schongenial: Do you agree with the statements that appreciation increases motivation, creativity and the ability to build relationships
Thomas Marxrieser: In short - yes!
#schongenial: Do we lack appreciation in our society?
Thomas Marxrieser: Unfortunately, definitely YES. Criticism, envy and resentment are too widespread. All too often I think I recognise narcissistic tendencies in society.
#schongenial: How can appreciation be increased in your view?
Thomas Marxrieser: By walking through our beautiful world a little more attentively again and recognising the many small positive things. By treating our fellow human beings with more respect and not making hasty judgements. By not waiting for "the others" to make the first move. Appreciation must become attractive again and every first step, however small, is good for this. People need to realise again the power of a positive mood and the sense of well-being it can trigger. This will never be understood by everyone - but as long as criticism and "negativity" receive so much attention, it is necessary to counter this.
#schongenial: Thank you very much for the interview. Thank you for the partnership and we look forward to hearing lots of positive news from your company.
