A survey conducted by Red Balloon for Corporate revealed that praise is the number one element employees desire to experience a good day at work! Although the survey was directed at professionals in the workplace, the outcomes can also be applied to the elements of a good day/experience in college.

Who can argue ‘praise’ as the number one element of experiencing a good day at work or college? Praise serves to motivate and encourage! Who does not love to get back an assignment with a comment stating, ‘excellent work’ or ‘you have an excellent understanding of the material we’ve been covering’? Likewise, we also feel proud and motivated when our supervisor provides praise for a job well done!

The survey went on to suggest ‘better managers’ as the number two element of experiencing a good day at work. Who wouldn’t want a supervisor that provides accolades and takes time to explain our role and consistently expresses appreciation? As a student, you may be able to parallel the role of a supervisor to the role of your professor. When we have a caring professor that provides plenty of praise and encouragement and takes time to ensure that new concepts and theories are clearly understood, we are motivated and inspired to study and do our best. Alternatively, if you have a professor or supervisor that promotes a culture of criticism, fails to provide direction and does not recognize your efforts and contributions, you will feel frustrated and may become apathetic in your class or job.

The number three element identifies, ‘more time with friends and family’ as important to workplace happiness and avoiding burnout. As employees and students, we all appreciate flexibility and opportunities to attend to family and friends. Likewise, if an emergency arises, we appreciate having a professor or supervisor that will be sensitive to our needs when emergency situations require our time. (To that end, as employees and students, we also have a role in staying on top of assignments and work deadlines so that when a need arises, we are prepared.)

Lastly, ‘greater trust’ is recognized as an important element to a good work experience. As a student, trust is also an extremely important factor to experiencing success and happiness. Recognizing that our instructor trusts our opinions and contributions also builds confidence and respect.

Do you experience these elements in your class? As we see the parallel, we can begin to appreciate how college can prepare us with experiences to transition from life as a student to the life of a professional. Along with theories and content, life lessons can be learned in the classroom. When a professor (or supervisor) fails to promote the elements referenced in this survey; you must believe in yourself and make the best of your environment so that you can bloom where you are planted! When you do experience these elements, learn from them and begin to live them out to encourage others!