A new study suggests that colleagues can help boost the voices of marginalized coworkers while benefiting their own status. Among the findings:
- Regardless of gender, amplifying a peer’s voice was more beneficial than any other behaviors.
- Amplification increased the status of both the amplifier and the person being boosted.
- Subtle actions, such as expressing appreciation for someone’s help or leadership on a project, can have a profound impact without being obvious.
- The amplifier takes on a leadership role simply by boosting other people.
Everyone benefits when managers and workers alike are encouraged to recognize and boost others so that everyone knows their efforts are appreciated. The results include greater teamwork and cooperation, as well as greater job satisfaction and employee retention.
