The Resurrection of Kindness

EVEN THOUGH Easter is behind us, there is one more thing that needs to be resurrected, and that’s good old fashion kindness. When was the last time you actually took the time to make a sacrifice and go out of your way to help a co-worker? These tough economic times are reinforcing the need for every savvy employee to have stronger relationships across their organizations and outside as well. So what can you do?{{more}}

Would it be too far fetched an idea to start a kindness committee of one? Don’t wait for others, you lead by example and keep it simple, inexpensive and sincere.

Invite someone to lunch. The meal should not be expensive. The goal is to build a relationship with the person, get to know them and vice versa.

Help out on a project. Imagine you have a major deadline. Time is of the essence and a coworker voluntarily offers to help you meet your deadline just when you thought the task was impossible. How would that make you feel? Now do it.

Remember special occasions. If it’s someone’s birthday, give a card, say Happy Birthday, buy an inexpensive gift (no joke gifts please), celebrate births, pending marriages, and offer condolences in times of bereavement. This can be done on an individual basis as office birthday clubs sometimes become too political and expensive.

Job well done. Instead of frowning and gossiping when a colleague gets a promotion, make it a point to congratulate them on their new position.

Mentor a new employee. New to the company or new to the work world, take the time to share your expertise with someone who is trying to get a handle on his or her new environment. Even experienced workers could use a little advice.

Offer rides. If a colleague does not have a car or their vehicle is in the mechanic shop, make it a point to offer a ride especially in inclement weather.

Refill the machines. Something as simple as refilling the printer and copy machine with paper can be a big time saver for someone. File or deliver faxed documents laying around at the machine to the appropriate person.

And finally, the simplest act of kindness is to: Greet your Coworkers. Say hello, good morning or good afternoon with a smile.

Karen Hinds is “The Workplace Success Expert.” For a FREE SPECIAL REPORT on Avoiding Career Killers in the Workplace, send an email to info@workplacesuccess.com Visit online at
www.workplacesuccess.com