The Tremendous Benefits of Connection

At a time when attracting and retaining best-in-class talent is essential and at a premium, showrooms need to do everything in their power to help ensure that their team members feel welcomed, appreciated and connected to one another. According to the Center for Talent Innovation, employees who feel that they belong in their place of work are 350% more likely to contribute to their fullest potential, yet 4 in 10 employees believe they are physically and emotionally isolated in their workplaces.

There’s an easy button to achieve a sense of belonging among your team. Researchers at the Center for Talent Innovation found that simply providing more opportunities for team members to interact and check in with one another boosts the sense of belonging. In fact, 39% of survey respondents reported the greatest sense of belonging when they can connect with coworkers. What does not work as well is face time with senior executives or being copied on senior executive emails. The researchers found, “by reaching out and acknowledging their employees on a personal level, companies and leadership can significantly enhance employee experience and make their people feel valued and connected.”

There is not a one-size fits all methodology that encourages team members to connect with one another. Connecting does not have to be complicated. Taking the opportunity to ask how someone is doing and what you can do to make their day better can go a long way.

The researchers also recommend that leaders in an organization seek feedback from their team members. Doing so demonstrates trust and talking about the challenges you face humanizes your relationship with colleagues and coworkers. It is important to note that you must also do something with that feedback, so team members don’t feel like their feelings are falling on deaf ears.

When you continuously express concern for the welfare of your team, listen intently to the challenges they face and take the time simply to ask how they are doing, you will fuel engagement, improve relationships and enhance the bottom line.