When people feel valued, listened to, and included, they're more likely to trust one another, work well together, and enjoy coming to work.

While leaders play an important role in creating a fair workplace, every interaction between colleagues contributes to how we all experience fairness and respect.

Why fairness matters

Being treated fairly is one of the Five Ways to Happiness at Work. It includes feeling respected, appreciated, and supported, while recognising that everyone has different experiences, perspectives, and needs.

Small actions, repeated consistently, help create a culture where people feel able to contribute, speak up and do their best work.

Take time to understand others

Everyone experiences work differently.

Taking the time to understand a colleague's perspective, listening before making assumptions, and showing empathy during busy or difficult periods helps build trust and stronger working relationships.

You don't have to experience the same challenges to be understanding and supportive.

Remember, this is just as important with peers and colleagues who are less senior as it is with more senior colleagues.

Value different perspectives

It can feel easier when everyone agrees, but the strongest teams don't all think or feel the same way.

People with different backgrounds, experiences, and ways of thinking often bring new ideas and challenge assumptions that others may overlook. Creating opportunities for everyone to contribute, challenge ideas, and reflect on different perspectives leads to better discussions, stronger decisions, and a more inclusive culture.

Encourage everyone to contribute

People are more likely to share ideas and opinions when they feel their voice matters.

Whether you're leading a meeting or taking part in one, look for opportunities to invite quieter voices into the conversation, encourage different viewpoints, and make sure everyone has the chance to contribute.

Feeling heard is an important part of feeling respected.

Recognise the contributions of others

Showing appreciation doesn't have to be reserved for major achievements or leaders recognising their teams.

Taking the time to thank someone, recognise their effort, or celebrate progress helps people feel valued and reminds them that their contributions matter.

Small moments of recognition can have a lasting impact on how people feel about their work and their team.

Building a fair workplace

Creating and maintaining a fair and respectful workplace isn't about one-off initiatives or grand gestures. It's built through everyday behaviours that help people feel valued, included, and appreciated.

Take time to reflect on your Be Fair score each quarter. Consider what's working well, where people may feel less supported, and what small changes could help create a fairer and more positive experience for everyone.