Employed Americans say this is more meaningful than a raise

Money talks, but gratitude goes further: a new study has found many find pay raises to be the "most meaningful" form of appreciation in the workplace, but not as meaningful as hearing a simple "thank you."

The poll of 2,000 employed Americans found 55% of people prefer having personalized forms of gratitude given to them in the workplace — more than the 52% who prefer raises or the 28% who prefer promotions.

Among those personal forms of appreciation, people like receiving commendations in one-on-one conversations (15%), receiving “employee of the month” awards (10%), being given a handshake (9%) earning a team-based award (5%) or being given a shout out via messaging apps (5%) or email (4%).

Commissioned by Motivosity and conducted by OnePoll, the study revealed two in five working people don't feel appreciated by their bosses for the work they do and 61% wish they were recognized more for their work.