What Does “a Culture of Kindness” Actually Mean? (And How do You Create One?)

Perhaps it’s no secret that when people are kind to one another, they’re also happier. And when they’re more comfortable, they find themselves more content with their day-to-day.

There’s no exception in the workplace.

Kindness.org recently commissioned Beekman 1802 to survey 1,365 employees from six companies to explore the link between kindness and overall employee happiness and job satisfaction. And, as it goes to show, a culture of kindness in the workplace does indeed increase both.

In fact, the researchers found that kindness in the workplace is an even more significant predictor of happiness than income. 

This isn’t the first study to suggest that kindness is essential at work. Other research finds that even the small stuff, like grabbing a cup of coffee for your coworker, can go a long way in raising morale. Plus, this kind of kindness is contagious. 

So, what does a culture of kindness look like, and how can you create one in your workplace? Let’s take a look.

 

What is a culture of kindness?

 

A culture of kindness in the workplace refers to a work environment where respect, empathy, and compassion are highly valued.

These values are not just encouraged in the workplace; instead, they are deeply ingrained.

A culture of kindness at work is usually one that you can see play out. You may notice daily interactions between employees that are considered kind – from buying breakfast for each other to offering support or sharing skills.

That said, a culture that is kind doesn’t always have to mean overt kindness. It can often go unnoticed if employees pick up their teammate’s responsibilities because they’re sick or struggling with a heavy workload. Or the person who is constantly stocking the office fridge with fresh fruit may not always get credit or thanks.

Whether obvious or subtle, a culture of kindness can change the company for the better.

 

Seven ways to create a culture of kindness

 

Creating a culture of kindness in your workplace starts with simple steps. Even little acts of kindness from leadership can set an example for employees.

Here are seven ways to promote kindness at work.

 

1️⃣ Define (and reiterate) the company’s values.

First things first, define what your company’s values are and communicate them to the team.

If respect is a major value, for example, you should let it be known. These values should guide all decision-making at the leadership level, which can (and should) trickle down the organization. 

 

2️⃣ Give credit where credit is due.

Make sure to acknowledge people for their role in an inevitable success or for their hard work on a particular project.

Giving credit motivates people to keep going and also shows that you respect and appreciate their efforts. But don’t just give credit to those doing their jobs well; also give credit to those displaying kindness. Calling out kindness in the workplace can encourage other people to practice compassion, too. 

 

3️⃣ Communicate openly and effectively.

Clear communication is key, and it’s kind. After all, you can’t expect your employees to be mind readers – and doing so isn’t very kind.

For example, communicating your expectations or needs allows your employees to deliver. However, not communicating your expectations or needs can feel like setting them up for failure. Open communication also involves active listening, a skill people appreciate because feeling heard and understood feels good.

 

4️⃣ Solve conflicts constructively.

When conflicts inevitably arise, constructively deal with them.

Offer professional but direct feedback so that employees know how to move forward. You should also always keep an open mind and be cognizant of your role in any conflicts that come up.

 

5️⃣ Offer training and development.

Offer training and development programs that focus not just on the hard skills that your employees need to do their jobs well.

These programs can also focus on skills tied to emotional intelligence, effective communication, and conflict resolution. Sure, many people already possess skills like empathy and active listening, but these are skills that can also be cultivated.

 

6️⃣ Support a healthy work-life balance.

Give employees the support they need to have a balance between work and life.

Maybe it’s as simple as respecting their time off. Or perhaps you decide to implement wellness programs that focus on their physical and/or mental health. Whatever the case, be sure to have regular check-ins with your team to discuss any concerns or challenges they have so you can kindly address them.

 

6️⃣ Implement a zero-tolerance policy for bullying and harassment.

Leading by example is critical in this department.

Establishing a zero-tolerance policy for bullying and harassment is one thing; acting on that policy is another. Ensure that your employees always feel safe and supported in reporting incidents, and take the appropriate action if they arise.