Be kind. It’s better for everyone, at the workplace, and beyond
Words by Sakshi Dhingra and Karan Karayi
The value of compassion in the workplace is sometimes undervalued in the fast-paced world of corporates, where deadlines, objectives, and bottom lines frequently take precedence. Nonetheless, a growing number of businesses are realising the importance of kindness and concern for their workers’ welfare as well as for the general success and productivity of their enterprises.
Kindness at work is more than just niceties and kind gestures. It includes a keen awareness of and empathy for one’s coworkers, a readiness to offer assistance, and a dedication to fostering a caring and supporting atmosphere. Employees are more likely to succeed both personally and professionally when they feel appreciated, respected, and cared for.
Indian companies that have led the way in encouraging compassion and kindness in the workplace are Tata Group, Infosys, and HCL Technologies. These businesses are aware that sustained success and development depend on having contented and driven employees. To protect the wellbeing of its workers, they have put in place a number of programs and initiatives, including mental health awareness campaigns, flexible work schedules, and employee support programs.
The disposition and conduct of supervisors and leaders is one of the main factors that promotes compassion in the workplace. Approachable, compassionate, and thoughtful bosses set the standard for the entire company. They provide an atmosphere in which staff members may voice issues, ask for assistance, and share ideas without worrying about criticism or retaliation.
The science of kindness: Unlocking happiness and engagement
Being kind at work is not just a top-down activity; it is also a shared duty among all staff members. A cooperative and upbeat atmosphere is created when coworkers show each other courtesy and respect. Little deeds of kindness, like helping a coworker who is struggling, congratulating one another on a job well done, or just grinning at one another, may make a big difference in fostering a loving and encouraging work environment.
Kindness, it turns out, is not just a feel-good sentiment – it’s a neurological phenomenon. When we engage in acts of kindness, our brains release a cocktail of feel-good chemicals, including serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins. These neurotransmitters promote feelings of satisfaction, well-being, and even pain relief. Studies have shown that even small acts of kindness, such as buying a coworker a cup of coffee, can have a ripple effect, inspiring others to pay it forward and creating a contagious cycle of positivity.
Furthermore, studies have connected kindness and compassion to better mental health and higher levels of productivity. Employee burnout, stress, and anxiety are less common when they feel appreciated and supported, which can have a detrimental effect on both their performance and general well-being. Additionally, a thoughtful and compassionate workplace may improve communication, problem-solving skills, and cooperation.
The benefits of kindness extend far beyond individual happiness. Businesses that prioritise kindness and emotional intelligence are reaping the rewards in the form of increased productivity, higher profitability, and better talent retention. A recent report by Gallup found that organizations where managers confidently lead their teams, having earned the respect of employees and stakeholders alike, achieve around 17% more productivity and 21% higher profitability.
The kindness quotient: A new measure of leadership
As the importance of kindness in the workplace becomes increasingly recognised, a new paradigm of leadership is emerging. Gone are the days when the stereotypical “tough” leader was celebrated. Today, the most effective leaders are those who demonstrate empathy, compassion, and a genuine concern for their team’s well-being. Kindness, once seen as a weakness, is now a coveted leadership trait that sets the tone for a thriving, engaged workforce.
But it’s more than just a powerful leadership trait; in a world where talent is the ultimate currency, kindness can be a powerful competitive advantage. Job seekers are increasingly prioritising companies that demonstrate a commitment to kindness and mental health support. A recent study found that 77% of job seekers believe mental health should be a priority in the workplace, and they actively seek out employers who enact policies of kindness.
Cultivating a culture of kindness
Kindness, it turns out, is not just a personal virtue – it’s a powerful force that can transform entire organisation. When kindness is woven into the fabric of a workplace, it has a ripple effect, inspiring employees to be more engaged, productive, and creative, which in turn, leads to higher profitability, better client satisfaction, and a stronger competitive edge.
Here are some ways leaders can create a ripple effect of kindness in their organisation.
The power of positivity
Tap into the power of positive psychology by beginning meetings and interactions with something positive. Research has proven that doing so ensures those on the receiving end aren’t just kinder through the day, but also share that kindness.
Ensure people are seen, heard, and valued
Be more purposeful in the workplace by helping colleagues and employees feel like their opinions matter. A 2023 report by Reward Gateway found that 62% of Australian employees preferred having a manager who cares about their wellbeing over receiving a 10% pay rise. Make people feel valued, and the rewards will come.
Reach out and listen with intention
Human beings are social animals, so it’s essential to sustain social bonds by listening actively and intentionally. This could be as simple to asking someone about their pet to enquiring about something they recently told you about, such as family, or moving, etc. Be thoughtful and connect with people on a deeper level.
Nurture a culture of open dialogue
In the spirit of listening more actively, encourage more active dialogues and frank conversations. This will likely spark more engagement among people, with studies showing that employees are 4.6 times more likely to feel valued when heard.
Stand up for mental health
Prioritise the mental health of those around you at the workplace, because you never know what someone is going through. If need be, institute a formal program for this too. There’s a business argument to be made for this too; the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine says that for every dollar spent on mental health wellness programs, you get a return of $2.3.
Being compassionate at work is not simply a nice-to-have trait but a strategic need in today’s cutthroat corporate environment. Corporates may unleash the potential of their workforce, improve employee happiness and retention, and eventually propel sustainable development and success by cultivating a culture of compassion and care.
