Kindness is key to success in business, sales and life

The importance of speed and technical knowledge in today’s world is well-recognized. However, there’s an often-overlooked soft skill that plays a crucial role in determining success not just in the professional sphere, but in life as well – the art of being kind.

In business and sales, success is deeply rooted in relationships. People prefer to work with those they like. Being nice creates a welcoming atmosphere that fosters open communication and mutual respect. This positive approach helps build long-lasting relationships.

Here’s a real-world example: Many an interview has been over before the candidate made it to the interviewer’s office. How is that possible?

Many hirers watch how you park in the parking lot – inconsiderate parking – pass! They get feedback from the receptionist – if rude and/or nonengaging with the front desk – pass! They take one look at you – no friendly smile, no eye contact – pass!

Who would want to add anyone that was not kind or friendly when no one is looking, regardless of what the resume says?

I have a few friends who work at Amazon and Microsoft and they say the culture at both of these companies allows for and even encourages polite disagreement and discussion of all issues. At the end of the discussion whoever is in change decides on the path forward after hearing all the ideas. This sounds completely logical but is not the norm. Everyone has good ideas and Amazon and Microsoft have done pretty well listening  kindly to them all.

In the world of business, your personal brand is your promise to your clients and colleagues. Being consistently kind helps build a positive personal brand. It sets you apart as approachable, reliable and trustworthy – qualities that are invaluable in any professional setting.

The benefits of being nice extend beyond professional success. Kindness has been linked to increased well being and life satisfaction. Engaging in acts of kindness releases endorphins, the brain’s natural painkillers, creating a phenomenon often referred to as the “helper’s high.”

Being nice is not about being passive or overly agreeable. It’s about showing empathy, respect and consideration in every interaction.

In business and sales, this approach can lead to stronger relationships, a positive work environment, effective problem-solving, a powerful personal brand, and even personal well-being. As legendary motivational speaker Zig Ziglar aptly put it, “You can have everything in life you want, if you will just help enough other people get what they want.”

This was originally posted on The Upstate Business Journal.