The Forgotten Ally in Leadership: Unleashing the Power of Connection in the Workplace
By Jayson Krause, Managing Director of Level 52 & Award-Winning Author of The Science Behind Success
Inside the walls of your business, there's an unsung hero, a forgotten ally that has the power to transform your organization from the inside out. This silent force is 'connection.' Often overlooked, connection is the single most important cultural input that enhances engagement and inspires performance. It's the biggest untapped resource on the planet, and it's time leaders brought it into the spotlight.
Why Connection is the Forgotten Ally
In the hustle and bustle of the corporate world, we often focus on tangible assets and measurable outcomes. We obsess over profit margins, market shares, and growth rates. In this numbers-driven narrative, the human element often gets sidelined. Connection, despite its profound impact on engagement and performance, remains the forgotten ally.
Connection is the glue that holds teams together. It fosters a sense of belonging, encourages collaboration, and cultivates a culture of mutual respect and understanding. When employees feel connected, they are more likely to be engaged, motivated, and committed to their work. Yet, despite its immense benefits, connection is often neglected in the workplace.
Becoming Great at Building Strong Connection
Building strong connections doesn't happen overnight. It requires conscious effort, consistent practice, and a genuine desire to understand and appreciate others. Here are some steps to help you become great at building strong connections:
Embrace Empathy: Empathy is the cornerstone of connection. It's about understanding others' perspectives, feelings, and experiences. Practice active listening and show genuine interest in your colleagues' ideas and concerns.
Foster Open Communication: Open and honest communication builds trust, a vital component of strong connections. Engineer strong relationships, encourage transparency and create a safe space for people to express their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment.
Celebrate Diversity: Every individual brings unique skills, experiences, and perspectives to the table. Celebrate this diversity and leverage it to foster a culture of inclusivity and mutual respect.
Invest in Team Building: Regular team-building activities can strengthen bonds, improve communication, and boost morale. These activities don't have to be grand or expensive; even simple things like a team lunch or a group project can foster connection.
Lead by Example: As a leader, your actions set the tone for the rest of the team. Show that you value connection by investing time and effort in building relationships with your team members and spreading the virus of connection inside the business.
Connection is the forgotten ally that can revolutionize the workplace. By fostering strong connections, we can enhance engagement, inspire performance, and create a culture where everyone feels valued and heard.
