This year, Random Acts of Kindness Day lands on 17th February, a key time of year to encourage us all to celebrate the many ways we can be kind to ourselves and influence positivity in the lives of others.
Life can sometimes feel weighed down with challenges, though there’s also immense beauty to recognise - particularly during these times of global economic uncertainty, it’s more important than ever to remind ourselves to be kind to one another and to give others hope. A small, random act of kindness really can go a long way, and make a big impact in someone’s day.
In the lead up to this awareness day, and in recognition of all the work we do at Calmer to support entrepreneurs, freelancers and business teams, guest writer Rebecca Leigh shares 15 ideas for random acts of kindness at work.
Make a difference to someone’s work day
At times, life can feel so busy and pressurised that we can struggle to nurture connections with one another. In the work environment in particular, random acts of kindness can really make a difference - a small, kind gesture or word of encouragement can make someone smile and transform their day.
Over time, small acts of kindness can create a positive ripple effect, leading to a happier, more connected and productive workplace at large.
Here are fifteen ideas to encourage random acts of kindness at work.
1. Join someone who is lunching alone
If you’re working in the office and see someone sitting on their own at lunch, why not take your lunch and head over to sit with them.
Connecting with others and striking up a conversation is something we thrive on as human beings. You never know what you might learn about someone else, or just how meaningful your decision to spend time with them could end up being, especially if they are feeling lonely.
2. Leave an unexpected gesture
Most random acts of kindness cost nothing, and there are many examples of this such as giving someone a compliment or offering to make someone a cup of tea.
However, if for example you use a paid coffee machine or go to a nice café in your work building, why not leave some spare change for the next person to enjoy a nice coffee - creating a pleasant, unexpected surprise in their day.
3. Introduce yourself to someone you don’t know
Perhaps it’s someone you see regularly in the office that you’ve never properly spoken to, or you’re aware of a new starter who is remote or hybrid working.
Take the time to approach them, either at work to ask how their day is going or by arranging a virtual call to introduce yourself. If they are a new starter, they’ll no doubt appreciate the gesture of kindness that you chose to check in on how they’re settling in. You may even make a new friend!
4. Express gratitude
Gratitude comes in many forms, and studies have shown it can play a big part in boosting our mental health and wellbeing.
Whether it’s a note or a small gift, think of someone who has helped you on a project or offered you a piece of advice that really meant a lot, however large or small. A little note of appreciation left on someone’s desk, sent by email, or posted through their door, can go a long way.
5. Listen to someone’s story
Human beings all share the similar need to feel listened to, heard, and seen. How often do we take the time to truly, actively listen to someone’s story? Perhaps you’re a natural listener, although it is a skill and a muscle to flex - and let’s face it, it can be hard to do at work without having time constraints or becoming distracted with a deadline or task.
During a lunchtime or a coffee break, when engaging with a colleague, be mindful of taking the time to really listen to their words, and practise the skill of listening in the moment, with empathy and without distractions.
6. Give someone a compliment
Spread your positive energy by choosing to give a sprinkling of compliments to different employees throughout the day. Whether it’s complimenting someone’s outfit, thanking someone for their time or advise on a project, or sharing why someone has made a positive impact in your life.
Sincere compliments shared from the heart can build trust, rapport, and strengthen relationships.
7. Offer to help your colleague out
As and when you notice an opportunity, help a fellow colleague with something they need, however big or small. Whether it’s opening the door for someone who is carrying something heavy, or noticing a colleague needs help on a work issue, or simply choosing to ask your team the question when you next have a meeting - “Is there anything anyone needs help with at the moment?”
Actively choosing to step in and offer a helping hand can make a meaningful difference to someone’s day.
8. Recognise your colleagues recent efforts
If you’ve noticed a colleague has gone above and beyond at work, why not mention this - either as a shout out in a team meeting if that’s a form of recognition you know they’ll appreciate, or simply by telling them 1-2-1, if you think they’d rather receive a discreet form of appreciation.
Giving credit where credit is due is so important and affirming for the individual, and one way to do this is bringing it to their attention, either individually or in front of their peers.
9. Finish off a task for someone
Where appropriate and certainly not in the form of thunder-stealing, offer your assistance on something a colleague may need a hand with, particularly if they’re struggling to finish a deadline. An act of kindness like this sends the message that they’re not alone, and a reminder that we all need to lean on each other from time to time.
10. Create a care package
Whether this is for a specific colleague or a member of your team, if you’ve notice someone has been snowed under with finishing a project, or has shared they are struggling with an issue in their personal life, show them kindness with a tailored and thoughtful care package. This could include a few of their favourite items, or a selection of comforting or nurturing products, whether presented in the office or posted to their home.
It doesn’t have to cost a lot, and can give them the emotional boost they need during a difficult time.
11. Celebrate a colleague’s moment of success
When a colleague has had a big win at work, mark the occasion in a memorable way - whether it’s bringing in balloons, a cake, or cookies to share with the team, or sending a bespoke gift to their home from you and/or the team.
Taking the time to recognise the efforts and achievements of those we work with does wonders for boosting team connection, morale and rapport, and ensures people feel valued for what they contribute to the organisation.
12. Leave a note
Whether on a physical board in the office, or on a virtual team project board, why not share a joke to lift your colleagues moods, an inspirational quote, or a motivating and amusing cartoon?
Bringing a sense of fun, play and laughter to the work day can decrease stress, boost your mood and enhance team spirit. Be the reason to brighten someone else’s day!
13. Celebrate the unsung heroes of your office
Every workplace has them. Those who quietly get on with things without making a fuss, who work diligently and may not get the recognition they truly deserve.
Take the time to tell them how much you appreciate them for what they do, and write them a note or send a virtual message to serve as a reminder for them to know they are seen and valued.
14. Remember your manager
Managers can feel a range of pressures, with various responsibilities on their shoulders to support their staff and report to their directors. With this in mind, a small gesture of thanks and appreciation to your manager can go a long way.
Why not write them a note, send them a message, or leave them a small gift to let them know how much you value their guidance and support. You can also check in on them to make sure they take regular breaks and are looking after their wellbeing.
15. Bring in breakfast for everyone!
The next time you’re working in the office with your team, surprise them and make their morning by bringing in muffins, croissants or fresh fruit for all, with a fresh pot of coffee waiting for them.
If you’re a remote working team, you could either arrange it yourself or chat to your manager about sending the team a few treats in the post, for everyone to enjoy together at your next virtual meeting.
After that, the rest of everyone’s day will no doubt be one of harmony, appreciation and heightened productivity!
What will your next act of kindness be?
As much as it’s important to show kindness to others, it’s also vitally important to remember to show kindness to ourselves - so also have a think about what random act of kindness you can show yourself. Whether it’s treating yourself to your favourite snack or meal, organising a catch up with someone you love, or making some time in your evening to pamper yourself - self-care is important for nurturing our energy levels, reducing stress and boosting our overall productivity.
I hope these fifteen steps have given you lots of inspiration for acts of kindness at work. Often, it’s the simple things that bring the most joy, and an unexpected friendly word or helping hand can go a long way. You never know, you could end up starting a quiet and kind revolution within your workplace culture.
Rebecca Leigh is a writer on marketing strategy for OX Essays and contributes to tech and marketing conferences. She is also a business consultant, and writes articles for a variety of online magazines and blogs.