A few months ago, I had the opportunity to attend Wisdom 2.0 in San Francisco. As someone who has organized numerous events, both big and small, I’m happy to say it was very nice. The speakers delivered captivating talks, the venue was stunning, and the people I met were lovely. However, we can’t build bonds from one-time interactions. It's like a one-night stand, and that has never been my style.
Since the event, I've received countless emails, but there hasn't been any genuine follow-up in real life. I share this because it serves as a reminder of how important it is to create ongoing moments of engagement to cultivate authentic relationships. This holds especially true for remote workers and colleagues.
Here are a few suggestions on how we can achieve this. But remember, it requires being intentional, dedicated time, and active participation
If there's no emotional connection, what's the incentive to stick around?
1. Coffee Chats and Mentorship: Brew Bonds Beyond the Surface
Let's break free from superficial small talk and engage in real conversations. Scheduling virtual coffee chats allows us to explore each other's aspirations, dreams, and goals. By initiating mentorship programs, we can create a platform for personal connections to flourish and provide valuable guidance for individual growth. Remember, it's not just about networking; it's about forming authentic bonds that enrich both personal and professional lives.
2. Employee Well-being and Appreciation: Caring for Our Team's Whole Self
Each member of our team is unique, with distinct well-being needs. Let's tailor our well-being initiatives to address these individual requirements. Offering virtual wellness workshops, mindfulness sessions, or providing access to fitness apps can contribute to a happier and healthier workforce. And hey, who knew mid-afternoon dance parties could be so enjoyable? It's all about finding creative ways to support our team's well-being.
3. Genuine Appreciation: Going Above and Beyond
While small gestures like Amazon gift cards have their place, let's go beyond the expected and show genuine appreciation. By understanding our team members on a deeper level, we can identify how they prefer to be acknowledged. For instance, if someone needs some extra love, scheduling a spa day for them could be a truly heartwarming gesture of gratitude. Personalized acts of appreciation make all the difference in creating a lasting bond.
Building authentic relationships requires effort and commitment. It's not just a checkbox on the to-do list but a constant effort to show that we care about our colleagues as individuals. Let's remember that true connections are built over time, and we need to invest in fostering these bonds. So, let's be intentional, make time for it, and show up when it matters.
Comments