"Jamie Jackson has been an HR professional for 21 years. She says she herself has been known to be the "workplace parent," and that they're not too hard to spot: look for the person regularly doling out "batteries, a Band-Aid, Tylenol," she says. Jackson explained that when cleaning out her old office, she realized just how much she'd leaned into the role."
"For her, it wasn't just about being prepared-it was about making sure everyone around her felt supported. "I don't think it's necessarily just an HR thing," she says. "I just want to make sure people are taken care of and have what they need. If it meant me having a few of these things in my desk at all times, I was going to do it.""
Workplace parents keep practical supplies on hand—batteries, Band-Aids, pain relievers, birthday candles—and proactively ensure colleagues have needed items. They act as the go-to helper for guidance, advice, and emotional listening when coworkers are uncertain or upset. They frequently organize or lead office social activities and celebrations, effectively serving as the fun committee. The role arises from a desire to make others feel supported and cared for, and it can be seen across roles beyond human resources. The nurturing responsibilities are appreciated but can create unrecognized burdens or drawbacks for the person filling them.
Read at Fast Company
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