How to tell if you are a kind leader - from the Verve Healthcare Unlocking Workplace Wellbeing podcast

 

Is the concept of 'kindness' embedded in your workplace wellbeing strategy? In this episode of the Verve Healthcare Unlocking Workplace Wellbeing podcast, Verve CEO and podcast host Steven Pink talks with Paul Johnson of A Kind Life about how we can define 'kindness' and make a positive intention to embrace it at work - with practical and pragmatic examples. 

 

Paul is a experienced clinician, manager and leadership facilitator with experience of working at operational and strategic levels within a variety of settings. He is a UKCP accredited Group Analytical Psychotherapist, Registered Nurse (mental health) and a member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (MCIPD) who is able to approach his work in a holistic way, looking at organisational culture and service dynamics. 

 

 

Kindness in the workplace goes beyond simple niceties; it involves creating an environment where individuals feel valued, supported, and respected. 

 

A kind workplace fosters a sense of belonging and encourages open communication, collaboration, and empathy among employees. When employees feel appreciated, they are more likely to be engaged, motivated, and satisfied with their work, leading to higher productivity and better overall performance. 

 

One effective way to cultivate kindness in the workplace is through wellbeing initiatives and programs. These initiatives could encompass a wide range of activities, from wellness challenges and fitness programs to mental health support and stress management resources. Providing employees with access to these initiatives not only demonstrates the organisation's commitment to their wellbeing but also encourages a culture of caring and support within the workplace. 

 

In addition to formal initiatives and programs, promoting kindness in the workplace also involves fostering a culture of appreciation and recognition. Simple acts of appreciation, such as acknowledging a job well done, expressing gratitude, or providing opportunities for professional development, can go a long way in creating a positive and supportive work environment. 

 

 

Creating spaces for open dialogue and reflection is essential for promoting kindness and empathy in the workplace. Encouraging team members to engage in conversations about their experiences, challenges, and successes can help build a sense of community and understanding. Supervision and reflective practices can provide employees with a platform to share their thoughts and feelings, seek support, and receive guidance, ultimately contributing to a kinder and more empathetic work environment. 

 

The interview with Paul shed light on the importance of fostering a culture of kindness and understanding in professional settings. His insights serve as a reminder for leaders to prioritise the wellbeing of their teams and lead by example in promoting kindness and understanding. Furthermore, Paul emphasised the importance of empathy and understanding towards colleagues who may be struggling, highlighting the significance of creating a supportive organisational structure that encourages employees to prioritise their mental and physical health. 

 

The multifaceted process of cultivating kindness in the workplace, including wellbeing initiatives, fostering a culture of appreciation, and creating spaces for open dialogue and reflection, not only enhances employee wellbeing but also contributes to a more engaged, motivated, and productive workforce. 

 

Listen to the podcast now - on the YouTube link above, or why not binge the entire series on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music or Samsung Music