I’m traveling today, and tempers are up, fuses are short, and it appears people everywhere have forgotten how to be kind.
I appreciate that kindness isn’t a priority for most people in an airport, but have you noticed (because I have) that kindness at work is rarer than it was just a few years ago?
We used to treat our colleagues as friends and consider their needs before we plowed through with our intentions. Now, it feels like consideration or kindness is missing. The fact that most workplaces are hybrid has taken away the relationships we are used to having with our colleagues. Our coworkers are “other people at work” now instead of someone we see as a human with needs and feelings.
Even in my personal life, kindness is disappearing. People won’t let you in in traffic, don’t smile in the grocery store, and certainly don’t hold elevators very often.
Workplaces need to foster a culture of kindness. The number one reason people stay in jobs they don’t love is because of the people they work with. Doesn’t that make a difference to you? I like my job better when I like the people I work with. And vice versa.
But this article isn’t about why it is important, as I’m guessing you already know that. This is about how to be kind at work.
- Start with empathy: Empathy is the foundation of kindness. Take the time to understand your colleagues’ perspectives, feelings, and challenges. Put yourself in their shoes and ask yourself how you would feel if you were in that situation. Don’t dismiss or belittle their reactions, but show genuine concern for their well-being.
Considering the examples I used above in our personal lives, how hard is it to think about others and let them in traffic, hold the elevator, pay it forward, and buy the person behind you in line a coffee?
Sometimes, we must remind ourselves that others are people too and need people to take a second and see things from their perspective. While you are the most important person in your universe, you aren’t the only person in the universe. Think about others, too.
- Be a good listener. When someone is speaking to you, give them your full attention. Maintain eye contact, nod in understanding, and avoid interrupting. That is significantly harder to do than it sounds, so read this article for more information on how to be a good listener: https://on-the-right-track.com/top-5-tips-to-become-a-better-listener/
- Show appreciation. A simple thank you can go a long way. This weekend, we were with our grandkids for Canadian Thanksgiving; our three-year-old and 18-month-old have the best manners. Pass them a treat, and they look you in the eye and say, “Thank you, Nana.” It made me break the rules about snacks just to get the thank you from them.
Take your appreciation a step further and send an email, a handwritten note, a LinkedIn testimonial, or a note to their executive. This will make them blush and show them how much you appreciate all they do for you. And, as a side note, it feels good to do things that make people feel valued, too.
- Be supportive. Be there for your teammates when they need help. Whether helping with a project or providing emotional support during a challenging time, offering help shows that you care about their well-being.
- Foster inclusivity: Create an environment where everyone feels included and respected. Encourage diverse perspectives and ideas, and actively challenge any discrimination or exclusion.
We regularly get questions for our “Group Therapy” about feeling out of the loop, not part of the gang at work, or excluded for whatever reason. Although we are all adults, it often feels like we are 12-year-olds starting our first day at a new high school. Make people feel like they belong.
- Watch your words and actions. Avoid gossip, negative talk, or criticism about your coworkers. Instead, choose your words carefully, focusing on constructive communication if needed. Ask yourself, “Does this need to be said?” before you say it. You’ll often realize that if you try to be kind, the best way is not to say what is on your mind. It isn’t lying, but instead, editing.
- Be patient and understanding. People have different strengths, weaknesses, and work styles. Be patient with your colleagues and avoid rushing to judgment. Understand that everyone is unique, and showing patience can significantly impact the workplace atmosphere.
Just because it is obvious to you doesn’t mean it is obvious to everyone or the person is not as smart as you are. We all do things differently and it isn’t always about you and your way.
By incorporating these tips into your everyday work life, you can create a culture of kindness that benefits both individuals and the team.
Together, let’s make our workplaces a happier and more productive place to be.
