Vincy Workplace
September 17, 2004
Random acts of kindness

When was the last time you performed a random act of kindness at your workplace? Just a simple act that benefited someone else and you gained absolutely nothing other than the satisfaction of making someone else happy?{{more}}
The workplace can be a cut-throat, stressful and even hostile environment at times. In the event you’ve forgotten how to be kind, here are a few simple things to start with.
Invite someone to lunch: The meal should not be expensive. The goal is to build a relationship with the person, get to know him or her and vice versa.
Help out on a project: Imagine you have a major deadline. Time is of the essence and a coworker volunteers 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 and 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 colleagues get promotions, 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 his/her 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 lying around at the machine to the appropriate person.
And finally the simplest act of kindness is to greet your co-workers, say hello, good morning or good afternoon with a smile.

l Karen@KarenHindsSeminars.com. Karen Hinds is an international author, speaker and
consultant and president of Karen Hinds Seminars.