How to Brighten a Co-Worker’s Day

You spend every day with them. You share successes, stressful moments and maybe even lunch. They are your co-workers. Whether they are your best friends or just people you are forced to spend time with each day, they still play a part in your life. Why not surprise them – and win them over – with one of these simple ideas that are sure to make their day a little brighter?

• Bring in breakfast. A box of doughnuts (try granola bars for a healthier treat) and a cup of coffee should do the trick.

• Say thanks. Write a short note saying thanks for a project someone helped you with or an idea they helped bring to fruition.

• Offer help. When a deadline is looming and you have some down time, ask if anyone needs help. Taking care of simple tasks, such as, making copies or stuffing envelopes will give your co-worker more time to focus on the bigger issues.

• Buy lunch. Maybe one of your co-workers is having a bad morning or missed a deadline. Get them out of the office for lunch. This will take their mind off what is wrong.

• Speak up. Make sure to greet your co-workers every day. Simply saying hello or asking about their weekend plans makes them feel included and makes you look genuinely interested.

• Give compliments Anything from, “Great job in the meeting,” to “I love your shirt,” costs you nothing to say, but it could make the day of the person you tell.