Business Acts of Kindness — like the familiar random acts of kindness — are aimed towards the business needs among colleagues. I’ve been a participant as both a receiver and a giver. Most recently I requested a quote from a colleague for a teeny tiny project that some may have passed over because of its size. Much to my surprise the project was completed the same day as the request plus at a greatly reduced rate. All of this because she liked what I was working on and wanted to be a part of the work. Wow! Taking a cue from another colleague I admire, I promptly sent a gesture of appreciation for this act of kindness in the way of an e-gift card. (This colleague has surprised me numerous times with e-gift cards that I so enjoy and appreciate.)
Often I’ve done something in passing that seemed so small it was barely noticeable but to the recipient it meant a lot. Some say these deeds are the practice of Paying It Forward, while others do unsolicited acts because they are able and willing to meet a need, it makes them smile, or they want to lend a hand. Many times the gestures are spontaneous but from time to time it’s done with planned intention without asking or expecting anything in return. The giver frequently gains untold benefits in terms of joy and purpose that another has been served and the cycle merrily continues on.
Most importantly, acts of kindness are relationship builders and network strengtheners. Kindnesses are extended to those who you know, like, and trust.
Take a moment to share your acts of kindness stories. Tell me if you’ve been a receiver, a giver, or both. Your experiences may prompt someone to Pay It Forward and keep the ball happily bouncing along.
As Virtual Professionals, we can benefit our businesses and eventually our clients by adding acts of kindness and thoughtfulness to the top of our customer service plan. VAnetworking.com is a prime example of generosity that can often comes back in friendship and just knowing that we’ve not left someone stranded…an ultimate act of kindness demanding no return as each virtual assistant steps up to assist another when the needy hand is waved.
What a great reminder to show my appreciation to my wonderful VA team and my exceptional assistant 😉
Thanks Ruth!
I agree, JudyAnn, there are so many examples of these acts found daily on the VAnetworking forum.
What a great post, thank you so much for the reminder. This kind of behaviour is so important not only with our clients, but with other business contacts. Small acts of kindness are always so memorable that even when the recipient may never become a client themselves, you will be in the forefront of their mind when they come across someone who does need a virtual assistant.
What goes around comes around. The boost “I” feel when passing it on is a side effect that was never expected when I incorporated this into my everyday life. At first it was difficult, but I try to do one act of kindness for someone else…without getting ‘caught’…if someone finds out…I need to do another one. It is amazing how this keeps me in a positive frame of mind. Thanks for sending me this package. I am just getting back to work and it is difficult to remember to take baby steps at first. LOL I want to jump in with both feet..it is so much fun!
@Justine: You are so right. Small gestures carry a big impact with all of our contacts. Thanks for the reminder.
@Janni: I love that you do your acts of kindness anonymously but kind in mind that with business it’s okay to let the recipient know it’s from your business. Keep enjoying that added ‘boost’ of joy and keeping giving. Stop by the VAnetworking.com forum and keep us posted with how you’re progressing in your business journey. Glad to have you back at work.
I am always searching for new ways to extend kindness to others in business. I think it means a lot to some people by simply asking what can I do to help support you today? It goes a long way! Excellent post by the way.