Kindness and gratitude are values we’re most often taught in our youth. We’re taught by teachers to share on the playground and taught by parents to say ‘thank you’ when given a gift. It’s only polite, we’re told. Too often as we age, we forget these core values. Or it becomes a habit and loses its meaning, like mumbling ‘thank you’ to the store clerk without making eye contact. You don’t really mean it but say it because you always have or are ‘supposed’ to.

Just like on the playground, it’s important to be a kind and gracious adult- particularly at the office. Here’s my Top 4 ways of doing so and most importantly, why.

Always say ‘thank you.’ A boss of mine once told me that people like to be thanked. As a sales person, this is particularly true. I’ve made it a best practice of mine to thank my clients at each phase of the business deal. Thank you- for taking the time to talk with me, for choosing to book with us, for doing business with us. As a non-sales person, it’s just as important! When someone helps you or listens to your perspective, make it a best practice of yours to always send gratitude their way. You are not entitled to their attention, so acknowledge that and they’ll want to help you again in the future.

Return the favor. When a coworker seems extra busy or overwhelmed, extend a hand and offer to help. By simply asking “what can I help with” in a moment of frenzy, it may help put your colleague at ease and shows you’re a team player. They may not take you up on your offer or there may not be anything you can do to help, but it’s nice to be kind.

See, hear, and listen. Oprah Winfrey once said “people need to be heard.” That’s part of why her empire is so successful. She really listens and connects with people because after all, it’s a human need to feel heard and acknowledged. During a brainstorming session, you don’t have to like everyone’s ideas but it’s kind to acknowledge them. Next time you hear an idea, try saying “that’s an interesting take on it” or “I’ll consider that” instead of dismissing it.

Build up those around you. It’s nice to be noticed when you’re working hard! The next time you enjoy working on a project with a coworker or witness a colleague going above and beyond, take a moment to say “great job today.” It makes for a pleasant work environment and a job well done deserves praise. After all, it makes your job easier when everyone does their job well.

So, why is this important? What’s in it for me! For starters, it is the right thing to do. But it also-

Builds good relationships. These days networking is essential for career advancement. It’s not just about working hard anymore; it’s about who you know. Being pleasant is the easiest and quickest way to build a base for those relationships. You’re not going to work beside the same coworkers forever, so you want to be memorable. What I’ve learned in hospitality is that people remember how you made them feel over anything else. They may not remember how efficient you were at sending calendar appointments, but they will remember when you helped them when they were in a pinch.

We need each other to succeed and flourish in life. So, remember: kindness does matter!