​When did you last share with someone important why you enjoy him or her? We’re fast to convey disappointment or dissatisfaction with others, but uplifting the attributes in them we like feels rather strange.

Yet when it comes to building loyalty, whether in customers, coworkers or family members, nothing will engage their attention – and draw them to us in response – like taking the time to consider and then share positive observations about them.

You may be thinking that an idea like this has no place in the rough and tumble world of auto sales, when in fact, you wouldn’t be further from the truth. Anytime that there is any interpersonal friction, misunderstanding or a feeling of ingratitude, an uplifting and edifying discussion about the values you perceive in someone else will carry the day for a long time to come.

The hardest challenge for most of us is identifying specifically what it is we like about someone else – and then being courageous enough to share these observations with them. You don’t want to spin an attribute that’s not exhibited in someone, but you can identify qualities in him or her worth mentioning. This means though taking time to observe your employees/coworkers and learn their interests.

When you build up others, both you and the recipient should experience a lift while building the working relationship.

If your goal is to build a loyal customer base, there’s no better place to start than by building up your employees’ loyalty and engagement by making sure they know how they are valued.  Properly timed sharing of encouraging remarks like “things I like about you” is the most cost-effective means for improving employee morale and loyalty.

Here’s how this might work in the dealership. Chatting with a service advisor in the break room, the service manager says, “You know, Larry, I’ve known you now for what, three years? You know what I like about you? I like that you’re always punctual. I like the way you greet our customers and always have something to say to them that makes them smile. I like it that when you talk about your kids your stories are always upbeat; it’s obvious you love them very much.  I’m glad you’re on our team, Larry. Thanks for your commitment and loyalty. It means a lot to me.”

How would such words shared sincerely with you make you feel about your employer, your job and yourself? The fact that someone else took the time to recognize these qualities in another speaks volumes.

Life can beat us down, and no one is immune from life’s trials. We can’t do much about those matters, but we can learn to speak grace into others’ lives. Why not choose today to be a deliverer of grace to those who labor with you.