While it's easy to get caught up in the stress of responsibilities and meeting deadlines at work, we must continue to show kindness and compassion to our colleagues amidst the chaos. Creating a culture of kindness at work can have a profound impact on employee wellbeing, productivity and job satisfaction, resulting in a happier and healthier workplace.
The benefits of kindness at work
- Improved mental health: Kindness can help reduce stress, anxiety and depression, which promotes overall mental wellbeing.
- Increased productivity: When we feel supported and valued, we’re more likely to be motivated and productive.
- Better relationships: Even the smallest acts of kindness can help us build stronger, more positive relationships between colleagues, leading to a more harmonious work environment.
- Increased job satisfaction: Employees who feel valued and supported are more likely to be satisfied with their jobs, which can also improve retention rates.
An article published on Springer Nature, referencing a study by Discover Psychology, found that employees who experienced kindness from their supervisors and colleagues reported higher levels of job satisfaction, organisational commitment and wellbeing. The study highlights the importance of creating a culture of kindness in the workplace, where employees feel valued, supported and appreciated.
How to create a culture of kindness
How can organisations create a culture of kindness at work?
Here are some strategies to consider:
- Lead by example: Leaders and managers should demonstrate kind behaviour and encourage others to do the same.
- Recognise and reward kindness: Recognise and reward employees who demonstrate kindness and compassion in the workplace.
- Build a sense of community: Encourage teamwork and collaboration to build stronger relationships between colleagues.
- Provide support and resources: Provide employees with the support and resources they need to manage stress and promote wellbeing.
Practical tips for showing kindness at work
Offer to help a colleague: If you see a colleague
struggling with a task or project, offer to help.
Listen actively: When a colleague is speaking, give them
your full attention and show that you value their thoughts and opinions.
Show appreciation: Express gratitude to colleagues who
have helped you or supported you in some way.
Be present: Be fully present in interactions with colleagues, putting away distractions like phones and focusing on the person in front of you.
Creating a culture of kindness at work can have a profound impact on employee wellbeing, productivity and job satisfaction. When leading by example, recognising and rewarding kindness, we create a workplace culture that values and supports the wellbeing of all employees. By incorporating kindness into our daily interactions, we can build stronger, more positive relationships, making the workplace a happier place to be.