Event Details
May SHRM Salem Meeting: Kindness at Work - Small Actions, Big Impact
| Date: | May 12, 2026, 11:30am |
| Organizer: | Cecelia Love-Zhou |
| Location: | Broadway Commons, Keizer Room, Second Floor (accessible by elevator or stairs) 1300 Broadway St NE, Salem, OR 97301 Free Parking on street, or in lots behind and across from the building |
| Price: | SHRM Members $25.00; Non-Members $30.00; Students $15.00 |
| Event Type: | Meeting |
| iCal link | Add to Calendar |
SHRM Salem Presents: Kindness at Work - Small Actions, Big Impact
- Tuesday, May 12, 2026
- 11:30 am - 1:30 pm
- Lunch will be provided for in person attendees.
Kindness in the workplace is often viewed as a “soft” concept — but its impact on culture, communication, and employee experience is anything but small.
In today’s fast-paced and often demanding work environments, small moments of interaction shape how employees experience their workplace. A rushed response, a missed acknowledgment, or a lack of awareness can quickly erode trust. On the other hand, intentional acts of kindness can strengthen relationships, improve communication, and reinforce a culture of respect.
This interactive session explores what kindness truly looks like at work — beyond being “nice” — and how it connects directly to leadership effectiveness, employee engagement, and organizational culture. Participants will examine common barriers that get in the way of kindness and identify simple, practical actions that can be applied immediately.
Through reflection and discussion, attendees will leave with greater awareness of how their everyday behaviors influence others and how small, consistent actions can create a more respectful and connected workplace.
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Define kindness in the workplace and differentiate it from passive or performative behaviors
- Recognize common barriers (e.g., distraction, frustration, fatigue) that impact respectful and effective workplace interactions
- Demonstrate behaviors that support respectful workplace relationships, including active listening, empathy, and constructive communication
- Apply simple, practical strategies to strengthen workplace culture through everyday interactions
- Assess the impact of individual behavior on team dynamics, trust, and employee experience
We are excited to welcome Deborah Jeffries, Vice President and Senior Trainer at HR Answers, Inc., and Programs Director for the SHRM Salem Board.
Deborah Jeffries is an energetic and engaging HR strategist with more than 40 years of experience in Human Resources, training, education, and organizational development. As Vice President and Senior Trainer with HR Answers, Inc., she supports organizations in building effective, people-centered workplaces that thrive through strong leadership, respectful communication, and practical strategy.
Deborah is a Certified Professional in Human Resources (PHR), a SHRM-Certified Professional (SHRM-CP), and a Certified Professional Consultant (CPC). Her training and consulting work spans recruitment, employee relations, customer service, team building, DEI, and her specialty—supervisory development. Clients appreciate her honest, slightly quirky facilitation style and her ability to inspire introspection and real-world action.
Known for her relatable delivery and humor, Deborah turns complex HR challenges into clear and engaging learning experiences. She has served as adjunct faculty at Marylhurst University, Portland State University, and Linfield University, where she taught HR courses and prepared business students for SHRM certification.
An active SHRM member and longtime volunteer leader, Deborah is a trusted resource for those navigating the evolving demands of today’s workplace. She is especially passionate about growing confident leaders, shaping inclusive cultures, and helping others find joy in learning.
SHRM Salem is recognized by SHRM to offer Professional Development Credits (PDC) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities.
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