So, if your boss is big on giving positive feedback, this is a cue to give words of appreciation in return. Quality time on particular projects deemed important by the boss may be a relationship channel. If your boss, asks about time or notices the amount of time spent on a particular issue, then giving quality time may be a measure of relationship importance. If you are busy giving words of appreciation while the boss is focused on quality time, then you will be out of synch no matter how much appreciation you give. You are simply on the wrong channel.
Some people show appreciation through gifts - small, creative, large, fun, etc.
They show the relationship is important by giving. Often, they see the relationship through these avenues too. So, not only do they give gifts, but they like to receive them. We stay late, go the extra mile and if our boss is on this channel, these efforts are valued and noticed. However, if the boss is on the gift channel, then these efforts may not be noticed and we feel unappreciated.