Google’s gThanks

A few years ago, Google created an internal tool called gThanks to make it easy for employees—known as Googlers—to compliment one another. Led by Lazlo Bock, then SVP of People, gThanks allows anyone to tag a colleague and post a “kudos” publicly on a shared feed. Unlike sending a private email, these public acknowledgments celebrate contributions for all to see, making both the giver and the receiver feel recognized. Bock even created what he calls “The Wall of Happy” outside his office, where printed kudos from his team are displayed, increasing visibility and reinforcing the company's values.

Google's internal surveys show that employees who frequently give or receive recognition report higher job satisfaction, engagement, and motivation. In fact, 61% of employees say they feel acknowledged for their efforts, 85% describe their workplace as positive, and 80% look forward to going to work every day.