Workplace experts advise on kindness and career advocacy

Leadership and career experts are offering guidance on navigating modern workplace dynamics through kindness and strategic self-advocacy.

Leadership consultant Birger Lycken suggests that adopting a ‘kindness strategy’ can enhance business operations by fostering trust and psychological safety. Lycken argues that being kind—such as greeting colleagues by name and offering praise—encourages innovation and collaboration. He notes that kindness should not be confused with weakness or lack of clarity; rather, it can make difficult conversations and setting high standards easier by building a foundation of mutual support.

In a similar vein, career coach Melody Wilding, who has worked with organizations like Google and Amazon, warns that traditional advice such as constant humility and gratitude can hinder professional growth. Wilding suggests that excessive modesty may lead to being overlooked for promotions, while perpetual gratitude might cause employees to accept lower pay or poor working conditions. She encourages professionals to take more visible responsibility for their achievements to ensure their contributions are recognized by management.