For any organization, the driving force behind success comes down to one thing: people. Creating an environment where employees feel seen, heard, and appreciated is no longer just an optional bonus—it’s the key to effectiveness, longevity, and progress.
In the labyrinth of deadlines, demands, and KPIs, what holds an organization together are the bonds of trust and accountability between employers and employees. Giving your employees the care they need not only encourages them to stay with your company but also ensures you’re getting the best they have to give.
But what does workplace support look like? If you’re looking for answers, you’re in luck. Based on a recent study by Preply, we’ll reveal the most impactful ways to support your employees and colleagues and ask for their help when needed.
Why support is important
Picture an orchestra without a conductor, a team without a captain, a play without a director. Without that central person managing it all, the whole performance suffers. At the same time, without every person in the ensemble doing their part, the group can’t achieve their goal, and no amount of leadership can change that.
Workplace support is a two-way street. When you give your employees and colleagues what they need, they give it back to you through increased productivity, better collaboration, higher quality work, and respect for your leadership. Building strong workplace relationships also helps foster a sense of shared purpose, which makes everyone more personally invested in your company’s success.
Additionally, when employers actively support their teams, they feed team members’ mental and emotional well-being. A positive work environment reduces stress factors, resulting in happier, healthier employees. Ultimately, a sturdy framework of support in the workplace is not only a key driver of success—it’s the glue that holds together the mosaic of personalities, talents, and goals that define an organization.
How to show you care
There’s no denying that words hold power. In a professional setting, they can play a significant role in molding workplace culture.
According to Preply’s study, verbal affirmations are invaluable in fostering a supportive and caring environment. Key phrases like “Great job,” “You’re doing a fantastic job,” and “Keep up the good work” are more than just words—they show that you genuinely value your employees’ or coworkers’ efforts and contributions.
Don’t be afraid to get a little more personal, either. Preply’s study found that “I’m proud of you,” “You’ve got this,” and “I believe in you” are the words of support people most want to hear, no matter who they’re coming from.
It’s ok to ask for help
In today’s professional world, the idea that asking for help shows weakness is quickly becoming outdated. In fact, it’s quite the opposite—asking for help when you really need it is a sign of maturity and resourcefulness. Effective collaboration often means relying on the skills and knowledge of others, especially when you need them for something you can’t or don’t know how to do yourself. After all, there’s no “I” in “team.”
But how you ask is just as important as what you’re asking for. Harvard Business Review advises support seekers to use positive reinforcement, acknowledge their colleagues’ skills or past assistance if they’ve helped them before, and, most of all, be kind.
Most people are eager to help when asked, but they want to know that their help means something to you and that it’s going towards accomplishing your collective goals. Reminding your colleagues that you’re in this together can make them feel connected—and let them know that you’re willing to return the favor if they ever need you.
Support builds a positive work environment
Whether you’re giving it, getting it, or looking for it, support is the cornerstone of any positive, productive workplace. While it may feel uncomfortable to ask for help, don’t think of it as a “weakness”—it’s an invitation to collaborate or an act that propels your growth and progress, the kinds of things that feed your company’s success.
So, if you find yourself in a challenging situation, don’t hesitate to reach out. If you see a coworker struggling, remember what having support meant to you in your time of need and offer them a helping hand.
