Death is inevitable. We will all lose someone near and dear to us at some point in our lives. You will also work with someone who experiences loss as well. Here are a few ways to support your coworkers during their tough time: 

1. Check on them.

Just a simple “how are you, I’m thinking of you, just wanted to let you know I heard what happened” shows that you have empathy.  

2. Please Please Please avoid bringing up your own loss.

If someone has lost their mom, it is in poor taste to talk about how you lost your 92-year-old grandma and proceed to go on about how you felt at the time. There are levels.  The only time it is fine to bring up a loss is if the loss is of the same immediate family level. If you lost your mom and so did your coworker, then you can say something short, like, “I have been there, and just know that I am here if you want to talk.” That is it! Don’t go into a whole story unless they ask. 

3. Offer help on task or projects that he/she is working on.

Somebody passing away is really part of our personal lives, but it is so important and affects us so deeply that it does come about in our professional lives, so making sure you are there to support them is appreciated at this time. 

4. Do something! Don’t just avoid saying anything just because it is uncomfortable for you.

Ignoring your co-worker’s grief may increase his/her pain. If you do not know the coworker well, a simple card will do. Passing it around for other coworkers to sign is also a nice gesture. The recipient will know that you care without having to say anything.