When a Co-Worker Dies:

• Know the company’s bereavement policy
• Arrange for a company meeting or a company-wide notice
• Allow co-workers time off to attend the funeral
• Allow time and space for employees to grieve and share their feelings
• Contribute to a special cause in memory of the person
• Create an office memorial board or a scrapbook of memories to give to the family
• Support one another

When a Co-Worker is Seriously Ill

• Respect the sick person’s desire for privacy
• Call and visit the person from time to time
• Send cards, letters, emails, short office videos, food deliveries
• Acknowledge the possibility of anticipatory grief among co-workers

When a Co-Worker Is Grieving

• Acknowledge the death with a note or flowers or donations
• Ask the person what you can do to help (be specific)
• Provide flexibility and help with time off or temporary re-distribution of work load
• Respect confidentiality
• Be patient, compassionate and available to listen
• If the bereaved person is not coping well, seek consultation or refer for counseling

In all circumstances be patient and understand that you can not “fix” grief. The grieving process takes time. Each person grieves differently. Openness and mutual support are essentials for coping with loss and grief in the workplace.