Why kindness matters in the workplace
Kindness is more than just a feel-good gesture. It’s a meaningful way to build stronger, healthier workplaces and communities. When kindness becomes part of the culture, employees feel more supported, energized and connected. And when employees are encouraged to give back through volunteering or community involvement, it can help foster a sense of purpose and belonging that strengthens relationships across your workplace.
Job stress can cost you
The impact is undeniable:
- 84 percent of employees have said that at least one aspect of their job has contributed negatively to their mental health.
- Employee burnout costs employers $4,000 to almost $21,000 per employee each year.
- 75 to 90 percent of doctor visits are related to stress-induced illness.
- Workplace stress is linked to health problems like elevated blood pressure, poor sleep and abnormal heart rhythm.
Kindness is a strategic investment
So how can you stop job stress from impacting your workplace?
According to Duke Health & Well-Being, kindness in the workplace improves overall employee health and emotional well-being, which leads to an increase in employee energy levels, positive perspectives and improved engagement.
It can also save you money. Employees who are engaged and mentally well are less likely to leave their jobs or suffer from presenteeism — which can save U.S. businesses nearly one trillion dollars in voluntary turnover costs annually. Experts have also found that those who participate in and are exposed to acts of kindness have lower blood pressure and cholesterol, healthier body weights and a lower risk of heart disease — the leading cause of death for both men and women.
Here’s how you can harness the power of kindness in your workplace for healthier and more engaged employees.
We can help you turn kindness into well-being wins
Show your employees that their well-being matters to you. The Wellmark Well-being Team is here to help you build a strategy that supports your employees’ wellness goals and overall health.
Practical ways to promote kindness in your workplace
- Encourage giving back. Volunteering isn’t just good for the community — it’s a strategic advantage for your business too. Employees who participate in volunteer programs report higher satisfaction and engagement levels. Volunteering also boosts employee well-being by reducing stress, increasing social connections and even improving longevity.
- Reward good work and celebrate success. A simple ‘well done’ or ‘thank you’ in recognition for good work can be worth more than monetary awards.
- Offer genuine compliments. Whether they have a new haircut, pair of shoes or crushed a sales pitch, let your team members know you noticed.
- Stop rumors. If there is chatter at the water cooler about others in the office, stop it right in its tracks.
A holistic approach to workplace well-being
A healthy workplace is more than encouraging your employees to eat right and exercise more. With Wellmark Employer Consulting and Well-being Services, you get a holistic approach. Our focus and expertise is on creating well-being solutions that meet your organization’s unique needs.
So, if your employees need to focus more on kindness and gratitude, our well-being consultants can help you find the right solutions. Our team can serve as an extension of your workforce to provide expertise using employee data to create engaging solutions. Connect with a consultant today.