Being a shoulder to cry on is the top way that Brits show their co-workers they care, as the top office ‘love languages’ around the country are revealed. Research conducted by Spacemade found that taking the time to listen to your colleagues’ problems is the most common way in which we express care for a co-worker with over half of employees doing this. Taking time to congratulate co-workers publicly and offering advice were second and third most popular responses.
The office ‘love languages’ – the acts of kindness offered in workplaces across the country – can be grouped into five categories:
- The Shoulder to Cry On: acts that offer emotional support and counselling to their colleagues
- The Extracurricular Activities Buddy: including taking colleagues on trips out of the office, such as lunchtime walks or meet-ups after work
- The Positive Reinforcer: celebrating colleagues’ achievements publicly and giving words of affirmation
- The Teamworker: coaching colleagues through problems and getting their sleeves rolled up to help them manage when they’re overly busy
- The Tiny Treat Giver: making teas and coffee and sharing sweet treats with their colleagues
Jonny Rosenblatt, Co-Founder of Spacemade: “The workplace thrives on meaningful connections so it’s fascinating to see that the way we most often show care towards colleagues is by offering emotional support during challenging times”.
When looking at the acts of kindness we most want to receive in the office, shoulders to cry on are still very much top of the agenda. Over two-thirds have said they need this kind of colleague in their place of work, followed by the tiny treat givers who are keeping them stocked up with sweet treats.
Jonny added: “Working alongside people who show you small acts of kindness and who you’ve built meaningful connections with really makes a difference. These little moments help create a sense of community, and that community fosters a deeper sense of belonging. When people feel like they belong, it’s amazing how much better they collaborate and work toward shared goals.
“Our research shows just how much people value emotional support at work. Employees want someone who will listen to their problems, and they want to be there for others in the same way. It’s about creating a give-and-take of support that builds a healthier, more positive workplace.
“There’s just something about being in the same space as your colleagues—sharing conversations, spontaneous moments, or even just a smile—that virtual interactions can’t fully replicate. Office environments that encourage these in-person connections not only make employees feel more supported but also help teams collaborate and thrive in ways that are much harder to achieve remotely.”