What to Say When Someone Cries at Work

Helping someone who is crying at work takes emotional intelligence, especially in the form of self-awareness and self-management. Self-awareness requires that we recognize that someone else’s emotional expression is having an impact on us, and are able to articulate what that impact is (fear, concern, anger, etc.). Self-management requires that we control our emotions in the moment, and adapt to what’s needed right now.

And what’s needed right now, in most cases, is for you to say something helpful, supportive, and brief. This article gives support on how to deal with an employee or co-worker when they are upset and need encouragement.