Throughout your life and career, you will always remember co-workers who have done something nice for you. Someone who did something just because. So why not pay it forward and think of just one random act of niceness that you can do for someone at work. To give you some ideas, here are seven (7) nice things to get you started.
1. Thank your supervisor for doing their job: Just because it’s your bosses job to be your supervisor doesn’t mean you shouldn’t thank them for all that they do. One of the nicest gifts of thanks that I ever received was when I was a Director at NBC. Our two summer interns treated me to lunch at the Olive Garden. It wasn’t about where we went but rather that “two broke college girls” spent their hard-earned money on me.
2. Compliment co-workers’ appearance, new acquisitions, or families: Praising and complimenting others brings a more human vibe into the work atmosphere. It temporarily takes the focus off deadlines, meetings and other sources of stress, and onto something nice.
3. Surprise someone with a personalized gift: Let others know how much you appreciate them by giving an unexpected gift. Select something that reflects their personality or their interests. For example, I once shared with my Branding class that I have kept a journal since I was 13 years old and really love the new trend of rose gold. At the end of the semester, one of my students gave me a beautiful Kate Spade (rose gold) journal with a heartfelt thank you card. Receiving a gift that combined two of my favorite things meant even more because it showed she was listening and her attention to detail.
4. Apologize and/or express gratitude to co-workers: Simply letting someone know that you’re sorry you were unable to return their call or expressing gratitude about their help – makes work a warmer place and one that contributes to others feeling all-around satisfaction.
5. Send a cheerleading message: Whether it’s a co-worker going through a personal situation or a colleague who just started a new side hustle, everyone can use some words of inspiration to encourage them through a difficult transition.
6. Treat a co-worker to a meal: Sharing a meal is a great way to bond with those who work for or with you. It’s also a wonderful opportunity to unite employees and motivate your entire team. Everyone appreciates being treated to lunch, dinner, or even coffee.
7. Make an introduction or connection: The next time your colleague shares how much they want to change careers or their desire to work in a particular company or industry, offer to introduce them to someone you know who currently does what they want to do.
This week think of a random act of niceness you can do for a co-worker or colleague.