Los Angeles Attorney and Talent Agent, as well as EVP Business Affairs at BigSpeak and Principal at Sterling Media Law, has found success in his professional career by using kindness as a strategic tool. Despite the common belief that successful business people must be jerks, he has seen that kindness pays off in the long run. A 2023 Baringa survey found that companies deemed kind by consumers doubled their earnings in the 10 years before the study. The study also showed that more people are inclined to purchase from kind companies. On the other hand, rudeness is not a successful long-term strategy, as evidenced by a 2002 JAMA study showing that physicians with the most malpractice lawsuits were often accused of being rude and disrespectful.
In order to use kindness as a strategy, it is important to focus on seeing, hearing, and remembering others. Making people feel seen and important by looking at them and smiling can set a friendly tone for interactions. Listening attentively to what others have to say and showing genuine interest makes people feel heard and valued. Remembering details about someone, such as their name, their interests, or following up with a thank-you note, can make a positive impact and create a memorable impression. Empathy and checking your ego are key components of practicing kindness in personal and professional relationships.
Even when kindness is not reciprocated, it is important to maintain respect and set boundaries. Treating everyone with respect, regardless of their behavior, can prevent conflicts and maintain a positive image. Not reacting impulsively to rude behavior and instead taking a moment to collect yourself before responding can help de-escalate tense situations. Setting clear boundaries with individuals who consistently disrespect you, and even ending professional relationships with clients or customers who do not treat you well, can help create a healthier work environment and protect your well-being.
By incorporating kindness into business dealings and interactions, not only can relationships be strengthened, but overall success and happiness can be achieved. Kindness not only improves the experiences of clients and employees, but it also has a positive impact on the bottom line. Despite the misconceptions that kindness in business is a weakness, it has been proven to be a valuable tool for building long-term relationships and fostering a positive work environment. It is important to remember that being kind does not mean being a pushover, but rather it is about setting boundaries and maintaining respect even in challenging situations. Kindness truly does pay off in personal and professional relationships.
