In the hybrid workplace, we have become super-efficient. However, we have lost interpersonal connections, and with that we have lost perhaps being kinder and tolerant towards each other. Those water cooler conversations are no longer there. Bumping into each other casually in the workplace are no longer there. The random sparring between people and thinking about ideas is no longer there. Everything is organised and digitally, and calendar invites are sent.
We have some way lost the power of being kind towards each other, supporting each other, volunteering when somebody needs help, and acknowledging each other. And to be honest, kindness is so powerful, and it is so cheap. What does it take? Really just a conscious mindset of noticing to be kind and civil, say thank you and engage with others.
So, one tip I want to leave you with is when you start your digital or online or Zoom meetings … is to actually take a moment or two where you ask everybody around the table who they want to recognise that week for something that they have done. And that is being kind and praising others. That just creates a different energy in an environment, and instantaneously builds a connection.
Kindness doesn’t have to be lost just because we’ve gone hybrid. Build it consciously into your team. Seek appraisal, acknowledgment, and what you want to say, thank you towards each other. As I said before, kindness is not expensive. It’s actually the cheapest thing to do to motivate and empower everybody. It just takes mindfulness to introduce it and be aware of it.
Over to you for sharing your comments and experiences.
What are your thoughts on the power of kind words?
About the Author: Kerstin Jatho
Kerstin is the senior transformational coach and team development facilitator for 4Seeds Consulting. She is also the author of Growing Butterfly Wings, a book on applying positive psychology principles during a lengthy recovery. Her passion is to develop people-centred organisations where people thrive and achieve their potential in the workplace. You can find Kerstin on LinkedIn, Soundcloud, YouTube and Facebook.
