This research examines how leader and follower gratitude expressions affect first-level supervisors. Drawing on emotion-as-social-information theory, a three-wave study shows gratitude enhances helping behavior, commitment, and performance. Leader gratitude boosts organization-based self-esteem, while follower gratitude strengthens leadership self-efficacy. Intentional gratitude practices can foster more thriving workplace environments.

This research shows that political polarization in the workplace reduces employee voice. Workers who feel politically misaligned—or mistreated due to their views—are more likely to stay silent, harming innovation and performance. Even small pockets of political fit can encourage speaking up and improve workplace outcomes.