Beyond the Desk: Why Building Relationships with Employees Matters More Than Ever

The office environment has undeniably changed. Remote work is on the rise, cubicles are giving way to collaboration spaces, and traditional hierarchies are being flattened. But amidst all this change, one constant remains crucial for success: strong relationships between employees and leaders.

Here's why fostering these connections goes beyond simple pleasantries--and directly impacts your organization:

• Boosted Engagement: Strong relationships cultivate a sense of belonging and trust, leading to increased employee engagement. Engaged employees are more productive, miss fewer days, and are more likely to go the extra mile.
• Enhanced Communication: Open communication thrives when relationships are strong. Employees feel more comfortable sharing ideas, voicing concerns, and providing valuable feedback—all of which leads to better decision-making. This is a key thing I appreciate about my BecomeMore team. We have a trusting relationship where they know I want them to tell me when they think we could be doing better. 
• Improved Problem-Solving: Collaboration flourishes when people feel comfortable working together. Strong relationships create an environment where teams can brainstorm effectively and solve problems collectively. 
• Reduced Conflict: Trust and respect built through strong relationships minimize friction and misunderstandings. This leads to a more harmonious work environment and reduced conflict, saving time and resources.
• Stronger Employer Brand: Positive employee experiences translate into a positive organizational brand. This attracts top talent and helps with retention, saving the company money on recruitment costs.

As a Predictive Index Maverick, sometimes I focus more on the task and not enough on the people. As I've worked to build the right balance in that respect, I've learned that building relationships doesn't require elaborate gestures. Small steps can go a long way. Here are some ways you can shore up your relationships at work:

• Recognize achievements: Celebrate individual and team successes, both big and small. (Also note that knowing your team members' PI profiles will help you identify their preferred recognition styles.)
• Offer support: Be readily available to answer questions, mentor, and provide guidance. Here's where some self-awareness can come in handy. How accessible are you—really? Can you answer inquiries on a time frame that's truly supportive? 
• Communicate openly: Share information transparently, foster open dialogue, and encourage feedback.
• Get to know your team: Show genuine interest in their lives, hobbies, and career aspirations. This doesn't have to mean lots of "forced bonding" time where everyone is uncomfortable. Just be genuinely interested in who your team members are as people. 

By investing in employee relationships, you create a foundation for a thriving workplace. Engaged employees become your biggest advocates, leading to increased productivity, innovation, and ultimately, the success of your organization.

So, make an effort to connect with your team, and watch your business flourish!

Photo by krakenimages on Unsplash