What follows are supplementary resources for Less Stress, Better Business: A plain-language guide to psychological health and safety for small business owners and leaders. Included are resources related to:
- Co-creating a Neighbour at Work Agreement – 10-minute team huddles
- Sample Neighbour at Work Agreements
- Team activities
- Deeper dive resources
We use a process of continual improvement. If you have any ideas for how we could make our resources better, please contact us.
Activity 1: Co-creating a Neighbour at Work Agreement
Co-creating a Neighbour at Work agreement – 10-minute huddles to help brainstorm and reach consensus
Most people don’t need a rulebook to be decent to others. They naturally want to be “good neighbours.”Dr. Martin Shain, founder of the Neighbor at Work Centre, used this principle to help build high functioning teams.
Every team has its own unique culture. Being a “good neighbour”isn’t about forced friendships; it’s about building trust through a shared commitment to do no harm and interact respectfully even when things get stressful.
The Neighbour at Work Agreementhelps your team define what “being a good neighbour at work” means to them and how they want to work together.
Use the framework below to lead a series of 10-minute huddles to build your agreement.
Below is a guide to facilitate the huddles that result in a Neighbour at Work agreement. You can read it out loud as is or modify it to suit your team.
Huddle 1 Topic:
Introduce the idea
What to say
“This is the first of several huddles we’re going to be doing over the next few weeks to create a ‘Neighbour at Work Agreement,’ which means we decide how we’ll treat each other with respect, support, and professionalism.”
“Most neighbours don’t need rules to be decent; they are just good neighbours. This concept works perfectly in the workplace. Being a good neighbour at work doesn’t mean you have to be best friends. It means helping when needed and committing to professional, respectful conduct, even on a difficult day.”
“Today is just an introduction. Before our next huddle, consider this question: What makes a good neighbour and what makes a challenging neighbour? You can think about this question from your experience or ask your family for their experiences. At our next huddle, we’ll share at least one answer for each. Any questions?”
Huddle 2 Topic:
Share ideas
Before the huddle
Write the question below where everyone can see it. It is recommended to write it as a T Chart so that participants can provide the answers under the correct heading:
What does a good neighbour do, and what does a challenging neighbour do?
What to say
Ask: “What does a good neighbour do and what does a challenging neighbour do? Let’s brainstorm at least one answer for a good neighbour and one for a challenging one.”
Write down every answer under either “good” or “challenging.” Do not judge or comment.
What to say at the end
“At our next huddle, we’re going to turn these answers into work behaviours. For example, a ‘nosy neighbour’ becomes ‘gossiping about coworkers.’ A ‘loud neighbour’ becomes ‘talking too loudly or playing loud music.’ I’ll post the list we created today so you can look at it before next time.”
Huddle 3 Topic:
Turn neighbour actions into work behaviours
Before the huddle
Post or make available the list of good and challenging neighbour behaviours the team created in the last huddle for your team to review and consider what might be a similar behaviour at work.
What to do
Read through the list of good and challenging neighbour behaviours one at a time and ask: “What is a similar behaviour at work? Please don’t mention names in your answers or make this about any other person. Some examples include ‘A messy yard’ becoming ‘Keep shared work spaces tidy.’ Or ‘Yelling loudly’ becoming ‘Speak calmly and respectfully at work.’
As team members share, write the answers as close to what is said as possible.
Tell the team
“At our next huddle, we’ll review these positive work behaviours and decide which ones our team wants to commit to at work. We’re humans and not perfect, but we can be decent and respectful so that we can come to work, do a good job and go home at the end of the day feeling good about ourselves. Are there any questions about how to be ready for the next huddle?”
Huddle 4 Topic:
What matters to us
Before the huddle
Share the list from the last huddle where everyone can see it.
If the team is small
Work together as one group. Ask each person to share one behaviour they would like to see the team commit to, and then go around 1 or 2 more times to get everyone’s top 3. You can say: “Let’s have everyone share one behaviour you think is most neighbourly at work. After everyone has shared one, you can add up to 2 more, but if your top 3 are already included, you can pass.”
If the team is large
Split into small groups. Ask each group to choose the top 3-6 behaviours they think would be the most neighbourly at work. You can say: “Your group has 3 minutes to choose the top 3-6 behaviours that you believe would represent the best neighbour at work. Have someone record your answers and be ready to share.”
After 3 minutes, ask each group to share and write down their answers.
Close by saying, “I’ll put your ideas together as part of our Neighbour at Work Agreement. This will be our first draft, and we can refine as we go.”
Huddle 5 Topic:
Build your agreement
Before the huddle
Create a list of behaviours based on what they shared. Edit to make sure the wording is inclusive, clear and positive. Make sure these actions are observable and measurable. Avoid vague statements about intention or feelings.
What to do
Say: “I’m going to read your list of behaviours from the last huddle. Let’s see if any are unreasonable, impractical, or would be difficult to observe. I’ll pause after each for comments. Our goal is to finalize those that will become part of our own Neighbour at Work Agreement.”
Closing
“These will become our Neighbour at Work Agreement. Next time we meet, we’ll discuss how to remind each other respectfully of these commitments.”
Before the next huddle, ensure that the first draft of the agreement is typed and ready to be distributed.
Huddle 6 Topic:
How to remind each other of our agreement
Before the huddle
Post the agreement so everyone can read it.
What to say
“We can all have a difficult day and act in ways that don’t match our agreement. That doesn’t mean we don’t want a good work environment. We need to give each other the benefit of the doubt and remember that we don’t intend to be bad neighbours. This is when we can gently remind each other of our agreement, which should change the behaviour. Of course, if that doesn’t happen, then it becomes a reason for discipline, but my belief is that one supportive reminder is all most of us need. As adults, we can choose our behaviours.”
“So, our goal today is to decide how to remind each other without it coming across as ridicule, shaming or accusing. Think about how we can say, ‘I see you may be having a tough time, but I know you want to honour our agreement.’ I want everyone to write down one way that you would like to be approached on a bad day, so that you don’t feel insulted or snap at the coworker addressing you. What could someone do that helps you recognize they have your back and know you mean well?”
Give everyone a moment to write something down and then ask them to share.
Write down or collect the ideas to share with them for voting at the next huddle.
Closing
“Thank you for these. I will put them together based on the main themes and have 3 for you to vote on at the next huddle.”
Huddle 7 Topic:
Vote on the reminder
Before the huddle
On a piece of paper, write down:
Step 1: Speak privately.
Step 2: Be calm and respectful.
Step 3: Focus on the behaviour, not the person.
Step 4: [Insert team option 1, team option 2, team option 3 from Huddle 6]
What to say
“In a few moments, we’re going to vote between 3 of the options the group came up with in our last huddle. Before we get to those, I want to highlight 3 steps that need to come before we remind a co-worker of our agreement.”
“Step 1: We want to ensure that when we meet with a co-worker to remind them of our agreement, we speak to them privately. This can help prevent our co-worker from feeling like they are being called out in front of a group of their peers.”
“Step 2: We need to remain calm and respectful. Reminding our co-worker of the agreement shouldn’t be used as an opportunity to get out our frustration. Remember, the point of this is to give our co-worker the benefit of the doubt and maintain a supportive working relationship.”
“Step 3: We want to focus on the behaviour, not the person. So instead of saying, ‘You’re so messy. Can you clean up after yourself?” we want to say, ‘A tidy break room makes it easier for the next shift to enjoy the space. Can you toss your garbage in the trash before heading back to the floor?’ We also want to avoid making it about someone’s personality. Rather than saying, ‘You’re an angry person, and it’s bringing the team down,’ you could say, ‘Raised voices make co-workers uncomfortable, and that could impact everyone’s safety. Let’s keep conversations at a reasonable level.’”
“Now for step 4, I’ve included 3 of the options you submitted last huddle. Let’s vote on the ones you think are the most effective, which means you think they are the best ones to say or do as a supportive and neighbourly reminder of our agreement. Whichever one we choose, we will add it to our Neighbour at Work Agreement.”
What to do
Give everyone an opportunity to vote anonymously, either on paper or digitally. Simply add up the votes to choose the one your team will try first.
Closing
“This option [read the option with the most votes] got the most votes, so let’s try it out, and we can always change it in the future if we find it’s not working well.”
“The next step is that I will put all of this together as the Neighbour at Work Agreement, and we will go over it together at the next huddle.”
Huddle 8 Topic:
Share the final agreement
Before the huddle
Create the full agreement. Keep as much of the team’s wording as possible and only adjust where necessary to improve clarity.
Share this with every team member before the next team huddle so they have a chance to review it.
What to say
“You’ve had a chance to view our Neighbour at Work Agreement. Are there any changes that you’d recommend?”
Pause and see if there are any suggestions. If so, consider adding them. If not, say, “That’s great. At the next huddle, I’ll have a copy we can all sign.”
Huddle 9 Topic:
The commitment
Before the huddle
Prepare one copy that has a space for everyone to sign. You can get creative and make it a poster, or it can just be a single document or digital document, but the idea is to get every member to sign on and say they are committing to it.
What to say
“Here’s our Neighbour at Work Agreement. Today we’ll all sign on to commit to it, but it won’t end there. I’ll check back in with you periodically to see how it’s working, and we can make changes whenever we have a better idea. Remember that the purpose of this is so that we can all come to work, do a good job, and go home at the end of the day feeling good about ourselves.”
What to do
Give everyone an opportunity to sign.
Closing
“Thank you very much for your participation in this process. It’s my hope that our team has a great experience working with each other.”
After the huddle
Consider how you will review and/or update the agreement in each of the following situations:
- Whenever the process does not work or is improved upon
- When a new person joins the team
- After a significant change in process or job assignments
- Annually
You can view sample Neighbour at Work Agreements below, but remember that every agreement should reflect the perspectives and consensus of the employees who are involved. This means that every agreement will be unique.
Sample Neighbour at Work Agreements
Every Neighbour at Work Agreement should be developed by the team and reflect their words, perspectives and consensus. This means that no two agreements, even in the same organization, will be identical. The samples shared reflect the teams who were involved, and are meant to inspire and inform. The sample Agreements below include the following sectors:
Sample Neighbour at Work Agreement – Manufacturing
DATE:[insert date]
Why are we doing this?
We spend more time here than we do at home. If the shop is a mess or people are acting immaturely, the day feels longer. Being a “good neighbour” just means being a decent person to work next to. It means we do our jobs, stay safe, and go home without a headache.
1. Don’t Leave Your Junk for the Next Person
- What it means: If you make a mess, clean it up. Don’t leave a machine empty or dirty for the person on the next shift.
- The action: Put your tools back and clear your scrap. Don’t make someone else do your “housework.”
2. Mind Your Own Business (No Gossip)
- What it means: We aren’t in high school. Talking behind someone’s back causes drama that nobody has time for.
- The action: If you have a problem with someone, tell them one-on-one, in private. If it doesn’t involve you, stay out of it. The exception is if there is a threat to the physical or mental safety of themselves or others. In that situation, reach out to [insert name] immediately.
3. Don’t Be a Bully
- What it means: There’s a difference between a joke and being a jerk. Our jokes shouldn’t come at the expense of other people or groups.
- The action: If you’re teasing someone and they aren’t laughing, knock it off. We’re all adults here; treat people with the respect you want for yourself.
4. Watch the Other Person’s Back
- What it means: Safety is everyone’s job.
- The action: If you see someone about to get hurt or doing something dangerous, speak up. A good neighbour looks out for the person next door.
5. Lend a Hand
- What it means: If the line is backed up or someone is struggling with a heavy lift, help them.
- The action: Don’t just stand there and watch. A quick bit of help makes the whole day go faster for everyone.
How we handle it when someone forgets
We don’t need the boss involved for every little thing. If someone is breaking these rules, give them a quick reminder:
“Hey, remember what we agreed on? Let’s keep it professional.”
If someone says this to you, don’t get mad. Just fix the behaviour and move on.
The Handshake (Signing)
By signing your name, you’re giving your word that you’ll try to be a good neighbour on this floor.
Signed: [Space for names]
Sample Neighbour at Work Agreement – Hospitality
DATE:[insert date]
Why are we doing this?
This is our workspace, but for our guests it’s their home away from home. We want to create a space that’s comfortable, safe, and calm for all of us. Being a “good neighbour” helps ensure we meet the expectations of our guests and support each other to succeed in doing so.
1. Sharing a helping hand when you can
- What it means: If you see that check-in has a line, offer our waiting guests a drink to make the time pass more smoothly. If housekeeping calls with a request for you to bring a pillow to a guest’s room, do it with a smile. These small things help make the experience great for our staff and guests.
- The action: Look for opportunities to support your co-workers.
2. Don’t Partake In Gossip
- What it means: Confidentiality builds trust. Talking behind a co-worker’s back or gossiping about guests puts the reputation of the organization, as well as your own, at risk.
- The action: If you have a problem with someone, tell them one-on-one, in private. If you have an issue with a guest’s behaviour, go to your direct supervisor. If there is ever a threat to the safety of an employee or guest, reach out to [insert name] immediately.
3. Share your knowledge and skills
- What it means: We were all new once. We rely on our seasonal workers to succeed in the summer months. Share your experience with them.
- The action: If you see a co-worker struggling with a task, step in to help them. If they have a question, answer it respectfully and positively.
4. Everyone belongs
- What it means: Everyone is welcome here. Every employee, guest and visitor.
- The action: Speak to co-workers, guests and visitors with warmth. Smile at someone as you pass them. Greet them. Ask them how they’re doing.
How we handle it when someone forgets
We want to ensure this workspace remains a great environment for staff and guests. If someone needs a reminder of the actions we’re committing to, we’ll say:
“I know you and I both want to be good neighbours. How can we do that right now?”
If someone says this to you, know that they’re coming from a good place and want to support you.
The Handshake (Signing)
By signing your name, you’re helping one another create the safe and calm space we all deserve.
Signed: [Space for names]
Sample Neighbour at Work Agreement – Office Work
DATE:[insert date]
Why are we doing this?
We spend a lot of time sitting or working near each other. If the office is noisy, messy, or full of drama, it is hard to get our work done. Being a “good neighbour” makes the office a calm and happy place to be.
1. Watch Your “Noise Level”
- What it means: In an office, sound travels. Loud talking or music can make it hard for others to think.
- The action: Use a quiet voice for chats. If you have a long phone call or a meeting, try to use a private room. Use headphones if you want to listen to music.
2. Don’t Leave “Dirty Dishes”
- What it means: The breakroom and kitchen belong to everyone.
- The action: Clean up your crumbs and coffee spills right away. If you put food in the fridge, make sure it stays fresh. A good neighbour doesn’t leave a mess for others to find.
3. No “Office Gossip”
- What it means: Talking about coworkers behind their backs creates a “toxic” neighbourhood.
- The action: Keep work talk professional. If you have a problem with someone, go to them directly and talk it out. Don’t spread rumours at the water cooler or over chat.
4. Respect the “Closed Door”
- What it means: Sometimes people need to focus deeply on their work.
- The action: If someone has headphones on or looks very busy, send them an email or a message instead of tapping on their shoulder. Respect their “fence” so they can finish their work.
5. Be Inclusive (Everyone is Welcome)
- What it means: No one should feel like the “new kid” who has no one to talk to.
- The action: Say hello to people in the hallway. If you are going for coffee or lunch, invite someone new. Don’t use inside jokes or teasing that makes others feel left out.
How we handle it when someone forgets
If someone forgets the agreement, we give a gentle nudge. We don’t want anyone to feel embarrassed.
“Hey, can we check back in with our Neighbour Agreement? It helps us all stay focused.”
If someone says this to you, just say “My bad!” or “Thanks!” and adjust. It’s about helping the team, not catching people doing something wrong.
The Handshake (Signing)
By signing your name, you agree to do your part to make this office a great place to work.
Signed: [Space for names]
Sample Neighbour at Work Agreement – Retail
DATE:[insert date]
Why are we doing this?
Retail is fast and busy. We are constantly moving, cleaning, and helping customers. If we are “good neighbours” to each other, the store stays organized, our shifts feel shorter, and we don’t get burned out.
1. Don’t Leave a “Messy Aisle”
- What it means: When you finish a task, don’t leave the leftovers for the next person.
- The action: If you open a box, break it down and take it to the bin. If you see something on the floor, pick it up. A good neighbour keeps the “street” (the aisles) looking sharp.
2. No “Breakroom Drama” (Gossip)
- What it means: What happens on the floor stays on the floor. Don’t use the breakroom to talk badly about coworkers or difficult customers.
- The action: Keep the talk positive. If you are frustrated, take a breath or talk to a manager. Don’t spread rumours that make people feel bad.
3. Share the “Front Gate” (Customer Duty)
- What it means: We all take turns doing the hard jobs, like the cash register or handling returns.
- The action: If you see a long line at the front, don’t hide in the backroom. Step up and help your neighbour out so the line goes down faster.
4. Be Kind to the “New Neighbour” (Training)
- What it means: We were all new once.
- The action: Don’t tease new workers because they are slower than veteran employees, or don’t know where things are. Help them out and show them the ropes. A good neighbour makes everyone feel like they belong.
5. Watch the “Shop Entrance” (Safety & Help)
- What it means: We look out for each other’s safety and the store’s gear.
- The action: If a teammate is dealing with an angry customer, stand nearby so they aren’t alone. If you see a spill, stay there so no one slips while your neighbour gets a mop.
How we handle it when someone forgets
We are busy, so reminders should be quick and kind. We don’t want anyone to feel like they are in trouble.
“Hey, let’s try to stay neighbourly. Can you help me with [this task]?” or “Remember our agreement? Let’s keep the talk positive.”
If someone reminds you, just say “You’re right, thanks!” and keep going. We are all on the same team.
The Handshake (Signing)
By signing your name, you agree to do your part to make this space a great place to work.
Signed: [Space for names]
Additional team activities
Team activity – Calling in This 2-part team-building activity engages the team in developing a process to respectfully hold each other accountable. Calling a co-worker in rather than calling them out invites respectful dialogue rather than hostile confrontation.
Team building activities This is a collection of evidence- or practice-informed team-building activities to help improve team effectiveness. Leaders and team members can learn how to resolve issues and support each other.
Additional deeper dive resources
Emotional intelligence for leaders Use the free assessment to set a baseline and the relevant free activities to improve emotional intelligence related to leading, managing or supporting employees.
Facilitation tips for leaders These tips can help you create meaningful and productive conversations with your team members.
Psychologically safe team assessment This resource helps to assess how employees experience being a member of your team and provides practical ideas for improvement including workshop materials, team activities and guides.