Too often we can readily recount those times when we encountered cruel or thoughtless behavior in the workplace. That is why a periodic review of the kindness that has shaped and boosted our careers is important.
I recall:
- One of my first supervisors, who patiently permitted me to redo a project that, because of a faulty assumption on my part, I'd thoroughly botched.
- An associate who tolerated the inconvenience of my odd work hours so I could spend more time with my children.
- A couple of colleagues who took the time to show me around and locate an apartment when I first arrived in Washington, D.C.
- An adversary who chose to ignore an intemperate memo that I'd written.
- An attorney who made an eloquent and completely unexpected job recommendation that opened a door that otherwise would have been nailed shut.
- The highly ethical bosses who not only led by example but also talked about the values and ground rules they developed over the years.
I doubt if any of those people fully realize the beneficial impact they had on my thinking and my career.
How many acts of kindness can you recall?
Michael Wade writes Execupundit.com, an eclectic combination of management advice, observations, and links. A partner with the Phoenix firm of Sanders Wade Rodarte Consulting Inc., he has advised privat e- and public-sector organizations for more than 30 years.
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