Elisabet Hearn and I wrote this article for 2020visionleader.com
A healthy organisation is dependent on people working effectively together. And to be generous is a big part of that. Generosity breeds generosity. And you can be the catalyst of generosity where you are.
Here are 5 proven impact hacks to consider when wanting to extend your generosity at work.
THANK/RECOGNISE SOMEONE
Stop and think: who can I thank today? Who has made a difference to your day? Who has put that extra effort in? Who has been a great team player? There is always someone who has done something great. Make time in your day for that. Be generous with your (authentic) praise and recognition. Show people you care about them. Be a leader who likes people.
REALLY LISTEN
Keep an open mind. Be generous with your genuine consideration of the ideas and perspectives of others. Listen with curiosity. Ask questions, build on what’s being said. Consider ideas and opinions – don’t be too quick to judge. Listen without judgment. Seek to understand.
OFFER YOUR KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE
Share your knowledge and insights fearlessly. But only if people are open to it and are open to listening. One way of doing that is to make sure you share it as a suggestion, not the only answer. Sharing creates new learning, both for the receiver AND the giver.
SEEK OUT PEOPLE WHO NEED YOUR SUPPORT
Look around you. Who may be struggling? Who needs your support? Keep in mind that it could be anyone – direct report, boss, peer or even someone external.
BE PRESENT
Wherever you are, whoever you’re with – be fully present. Don’t let yourself be distracted by what came before or will come after. Be generous with your time and presence.
