Why kindness is a powerful tool in the workplace

Kindness is often undervalued in the business world, seen as a weakness rather than a strength. However, a recent event organised by Brighton Chamber shed light on the significance of kindness in the workplace. Dr. Gillian Sandstrom, senior lecturer in the Psychology of Kindness, shared intriguing findings from the BBC Kindness Test, a collaborative project with the University of Sussex.

We thoroughly enjoyed supporting this event and found that it sparked some great discussions on the importance of kindness and its potential impact on businesses.

Here are our three key takeaways: 

Small acts, big impact: Kindness doesn't have to involve grand gestures. A simple thank you or a friendly greeting can go a long way in creating a positive outcome.

Gender and perceived lack of kindness: The event highlighted the varying perceptions of kindness based on gender and revealed areas where kindness might be lacking, such as interactions with freelancers, suppliers, and bosses.

Kindness and better business: The question arose whether fostering more kindness would lead to improved business outcomes, better decision-making, enhanced quality of life, and reduced burnout.

And some insights on kindness in the workplace 

Benefits of receiving kindness

Acts of kindness in the workplace have a profound impact on individuals' well-being and contribute to a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction. When we experience kindness from our colleagues or indeed bosses, it creates a positive work environment where everyone feels valued and supported. Such acts of kindness can boost morale, increase motivation, and enhance overall job satisfaction, leading to improved productivity and performance.

Diverse ways of being kind 

Kindness extends far beyond the traditional acts we often associate with it. It is crucial to recognise and appreciate the many of ways kindness can exist in the workplace. By acknowledging and embracing the diverse range of kindness, we create an inclusive and supportive work environment.

Kindness is a skill 

Being kind is not merely a random act but a skill that can be cultivated and refined over time. It requires emotional intelligence, empathy, and the ability to understand others' perspectives. Continuous practice and reflection enable us to become more adept at navigating complex workplace dynamics and responding with kindness in various situations.

Extending kindness

Kindness should not be limited to specific groups or hierarchical positions within a business. It is essential to extend our circle of kindness to include not only our colleagues but also our bosses. Creating a culture of kindness throughout the entire workplace promotes collaboration, open communication, and mutual respect. 

Leveraging personal strengths 

Everyone possesses unique strengths and talents. By identifying and leveraging these personal strengths, individuals can express kindness in ways that align with their capabilities and authentic selves. For example, someone with excellent problem-solving skills can help in resolving challenges, while someone with strong communication abilities can provide clarity and support in team discussions.

Observing kindness 

Paying attention to the ways in which others display kindness in the workplace is important. By actively observing and acknowledging the efforts of our colleagues, we create a culture that values and encourages kindness. Celebrating and highlighting these positive behaviours cultivates a supportive environment where kindness becomes a shared value.

Overcoming barriers 

Being kind may sometimes face barriers, whether real or imaginary, that hinder our ability to express kindness. It is crucial to identify and address these barriers to create a more compassionate workplace. Real barriers might include time constraints, heavy workloads, or conflicting priorities. By finding ways to prioritise kindness and integrate it into our daily routines, we can overcome these obstacles.

The liking gap 

In the workplace, it is common to encounter differences in opinions, working styles, and personalities. The "liking gap" refers to the tendency to underestimate the positive impact of working together and valuing our colleagues. By avoiding pessimism and embracing the benefits of collaboration, we enable an environment where kindness and appreciation thrive. Understanding the diverse perspectives and skills of our colleagues, and valuing their contributions, leads to better decision-making.

Small acts of kindness can have a significant impact on well-being, workplace culture, and overall business outcomes. By enabling kindness, businesses can enhance communication, collaboration, and decision-making processes.

Embracing kindness as a core value can lead to a better quality of life, reduce burnout, and ultimately, create a more successful and fulfilling work environment.

Plus Accounting are sponsors of our Thought Leadership event series - for the thoughtful business leader. 

Find out more about Plus Accounting on their website here. 

Photography by Beth Wild Photography.

If you want to contribute to the Chamber blog, contact us on hannah@brightonchamber.co.uk