LinkedIn to Bosses: Here's How to Make Your Workers Happy

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Making lots of money isn't the only way to feel successful. Increasingly, it's the little victories that give workers a strong sense of fulfillment, new research from LinkedIn suggests.

For many, those successes are defined as having work-life balance and flexibility in their jobs. It can also be as simple as being appreciated by their bosses, colleagues or clients, according to the study. That sense of feeling appreciated can have a large impact on employees, the research shows. When U.S. workers feel like their "everyday successes" are appreciated, they're more likely to have a better attitude at work, do a better job and stay with the company longer.

"Being a part of a team that acknowledges your accomplishments and working under a supervisor who appreciates your hard work can be some of the most motivating tools for success in your career," Nicole Williams, a LinkedIn career expert, told Business News Daily. "Your surroundings directly impact and increase your performance level, making you a better worker and a stronger contributor to your team."

If they had the choice, 32 percent of employees said they wish their bosses would give them compliments in person, while 23 percent said they want bosses to compliment their work in front of others.

Not taking the time to recognize your employees' contributions can have some pretty significant consequences, especially among younger workers. The study revealed that 37 percent of workers under the age of 40 have resigned from a job because they didn't feel it celebrated their day-to-day contributions.

"It feels good to succeed at a workplace that supports you, and professionals today see those factors as invaluable to their careers," Williams said.

The study found that recognition ranks higher than other coveted workplace incentives, including being able to partake in organized social outings with colleagues; receiving occasional perks, such as complimentary meals or tickets to an event; and getting an additional vacation day.

"Many professionals working today understand that a salary can be negotiated and not all incentives or 'perks' are all they are made out to be," Williams said.

The study was based on surveys of 450 U.S. full-time employees over the age of 18. To view a LinkedIn video series exploring the topic of "small successes," click here.