5 min read

KINDNESS - do the unexpected, support colleagues and build your reputation

Sonia wrote to all her work colleagues this mail:

"I have been nominated (by myself) to organise a once-a-month team drink so that we can all get to know each other better and decompress after a hard month’s work.

Last time we went, not everyone was involved, so I thought I’d send an email this time. If you all think this is a good idea (or a terribly bad one), please let me know!

Almost immediately, a one-word mail from a colleague came back: "Negative."

But Sonia persisted, and the event she convened went well. Those attending said they had enjoyed the opportunity for an informal get-together.

Stress, deadlines, and competition often dominate at work. Many people fight invisible battles, such as mental health issues, family challenges, personal hardships, and work fatigue.

Your kindness can acknowledge these struggles and help create a compassionate workplace where everyone feels understood and valued.

Random acts of kindness, such as leaving a positive note on a colleague's desk, offering to cover a shift for a sick colleague, or surprising a team member with a treat, may seem insignificant, even unpopular.

Yet, they can transform the work environment with gains for your perceived effectiveness. Such gestures create a positive atmosphere.

When people feel appreciated, they're more likely to engage with you and contribute. This behaviour makes work feel less like a chore and more fulfilling.

WHAT IS IT?

Workplace kindness is more than a positive attitude and goodwill toward your co-workers, including your direct co-workers, managers, and customers.

It's about creating an environment where empathy has value, and compassion becomes action.

When kindness is present in the workplace, it fosters a harmonious and productive environment. By practising kindness, you contribute to this positive atmosphere and gain significant personal benefits, such as improved job satisfaction, enhanced well-being, and strengthened relationships.

While you may benefit from your kindness, this should not be the sole reason for your actions. When acts of kindness become regular, they multiply, creating a culture of generosity that benefits everyone.

People tend to naturally pay back kindness to the same person and often to someone entirely new.

This creates a re-enforcing cycle of kindness.

Each act of kindness contributes to a supportive and uplifting workplace environment.

For those with a cynical mindset, this kindness stuff can seem flaky and not hard-nosed enough in a commercial setting. Yet acts of kindness have become a workplace standard.

Mounting research shows hidden benefits to kindness, such as improved mental and physical health, increased job satisfaction, and enhanced productivity. A little bit of kindness can go a long way in creating a positive work environment.

People making a special effort to be kind are happier and have better mental and physical health than those who don't spend as much time supporting others.

Kindness builds happiness and well-being. Even now, job postings often list kindness as an essential value of the organisation.

DOES KINDNESS PAY?

Four key findings from research into kindness are:

Being kind to your boss predicts happiness in the workplace.
Kindness at work is a more significant predictor of happiness than income.
Feeling valued is one of the most significant contributors to workplace happiness.
Doing purposeful work is directly linked to levels of happiness at work.

"As we spend so much of our adult lives at work, we believe fostering environments of kindness in the workplace will have profoundly positive ripple effects in all aspects of life." Brent Ridge, co-founder of Beekman 1802, a major skincare company.

Other studies have shown that small actions, such as helping, expressing gratitude, or acknowledging colleagues' efforts, raise morale and promote teamwork.

These seemingly insignificant acts can significantly impact the overall work environment. For instance, buying a cup of coffee for a co-worker can be considered a kind gesture. Inviting colleagues to an informal get-together outside office hours will have an impact beyond just the initial invitation.

"The bottom line is that kindness is one of the most important values a company can prioritise, and we have shown conclusively the clear, significant impact it can have on organisational success," Jaclyn Lindsey, chief executive officer at kindness.org.

Employees who treat each other with kindness and respect experience 26% more energy and 36% greater satisfaction. A positive work environment encourages people to give their best effort, leading to improved productivity.

Acts of kindness can contribute to better health. When colleagues support one another, it reduces stress and promotes overall well-being.

By showing empathy and understanding, we value and appreciate our colleagues. These connections enhance collaboration and create a sense of camaraderie.

KINDNESS IN ACTION

There are many practical ways you can show kindness at work. Here are some to try:

Help Co-workers-- aid your co-workers when they need it. Recognise when someone on the team could benefit from your support and lend a helping hand. For instance, if you spot a colleague swamped with tasks, you could offer to take on a part of their workload to help them meet their deadlines.

Smile—a smile goes a long way. Greet your colleagues with a friendly smile; it's an inherently kind gesture that can brighten someone's day.

Acknowledge your colleagues' efforts and achievements. Celebrate their successes, whether a completed project, a career milestone, or a positive outcome. Even a heartfelt statement such as "That was a great job" can boost morale.

Express gratitude regularly; whether verbally "thank you" or a thoughtful note, appreciation for your co-workers' contributions fosters a positive work environment.

Bring Food to Work--surprise your team with a treat! Bringing in snacks, baked goods, or even ordering lunch can create a sense of camaraderie and show that you care about their well-being.

Have Meaningful Conversations--go beyond small talk and engage in conversations that matter. Ask about people's interests, hobbies, or weekend plans. Deeper connections build workplace relationships.

Offer Positive Feedback--when you notice someone doing something well, let them know. Positive feedback encourages growth and reinforces good behaviour.

Listen Actively—that is, listen attentively. Give your full attention when a colleague shares their thoughts or concerns. Show empathy and validate their feelings.

Share Knowledge—If you have expertise in a particular area, share it with your team by offering tips, tricks, or insights to benefit others.

Be inclusive—Invite colleagues to join activities or meetings. Try to include everyone, especially new team members.

Remember Special Occasions—such as birthdays, work anniversaries, and other milestones. A small gesture like a card or a cake can make someone feel valued.

Practice Random Acts of Kindness by surprising co-workers with unexpected thoughtfulness. For example, you could leave a positive note on their desk or offer to cover their shift when they are unwell.

Start Meetings with Kindness—by sharing a kindness quote or recognising someone's efforts. Setting a positive tone at the outset can influence the entire meeting.

Create a kindness wall where team members can post acts of kindness they've witnessed or experienced. This wall will serve as a reminder of the positive impact we can have on each other.