Care about what you do

We do not all have to sing kumbaya. I am not talking about touchy-feely exaggerated displays of kindness. I am talking about our core motivation and purposeful actions.

Caring is not merely an emotion, but a deliberate choice we make to demonstrate our commitment to individuals and causes. When we talk about caring in a professional context, particularly towards our clients and colleagues, it encompasses a broad spectrum of actions and attitudes:

1. Active Listening: Taking time to reply to all in an email is one manifestation of care. It shows that you value the individual’s input and are keen on addressing every concern they might have. It’s a display of respect for their time and thoughts.
2. Engagement: Ensuring everyone’s attention when needed implies that every team member or stakeholder is integral to the project. It’s an assertion that their presence and contribution make a difference.
3. Inclusivity: Big decisions in a professional setting often have ripple effects. By including everyone who might be impacted by or have a stake in these decisions, you are emphasizing the importance of diverse perspectives and equitable treatment.
4. Promptness: Responding quickly, even if it’s just an acknowledgment, signifies that you respect the urgency of the matter and recognize its importance. A swift reply not only provides peace of mind but also demonstrates that you prioritize their concerns.
5. Follow-through: Acknowledging a request or concern is just the first step. Real care is demonstrated when you take the necessary actions after that acknowledgment. Following through on commitments is a testament to your reliability.
6. Empathy: This means understanding and sharing the feelings of another. In a professional environment, it’s about placing oneself in the shoes of the client or colleague to understand their perspective, needs, and concerns genuinely.
7. Proactiveness: Anticipating the needs and concerns of clients or colleagues before they even voice them is a hallmark of care. This not only streamlines processes but also makes individuals feel valued and understood.
8. Accountability: Making mistakes is human. However, acknowledging them, taking responsibility, and making amends is a powerful expression of care. It shows you value the relationship more than preserving your ego.
9. Continuous Learning: This means actively seeking feedback and being open to changes. By continuously evolving based on the feedback received from clients or colleagues, you showcase your commitment to excellence and to serving them better.
10. Integrity: Being honest and transparent, even when it’s not the easiest path, underscores a deep-seated care for the trust that others have placed in you.

For some of our professional relationships and clients, this all comes easy – because both parties share the same values and character. (We have a “no jerk” policy at Momentum.) But if you deem a relationship has value enough to work together, then you need to care about it.

Caring emphasizes respect, commitment, and a genuine desire for the well-being of everyone involved. When nurtured and demonstrated consistently, care can become the foundation of trust, collaboration, and long-lasting professional relationships.