Building connection in the workplace can be difficult with the hustle and bustle of job responsibilities. Add in the obstacle of hybrid or remote work, and connecting with people face-to-face is a little more difficult than in past years. Building strong connections in the workplace is essential for fostering collaboration, boosting morale, and unlocking new career opportunities.
Living in a digital world, it can be hard to connect with others, and having to go out of your way to make those connections can feel a little impossible at times. 36% of the workforce report feeling disengaged at work, thus leaving employees feeling more disconnected and unhappy in their roles. Yet, developing and investing in meaningful relationships with colleagues across different roles and departments can lead to greater personal growth and organizational success. Employees can improve communication, enhance job satisfaction, and contribute to a positive work culture that benefits everyone by focusing on people first. Learn how you can take steps to build these connections and why they’re so crucial for both your career and your company’s success.
Why Connection in the Workplace Matters for Employees
1. Boosts Job Satisfaction and Engagement
A strong connection in the workplace has a direct impact on job satisfaction. Employees who feel more engaged at work are more likely to feel satisfied in their jobs, are happier, and more excited each day. Employees who form meaningful relationships with colleagues are more engaged, motivated, and fulfilled in their roles. These connections help employees feel like they’re part of a team, fostering a sense of belonging and increasing overall happiness at work.
2. Improves Collaboration Across Departments
Building relationships outside of your immediate team fosters greater collaboration across departments. When employees feel comfortable reaching out to colleagues in other roles, they can work together more effectively on cross-functional projects. This not only helps with problem-solving, but also enhances communication and leads to better business outcomes.
3. Expands Career Opportunities
Networking isn’t just for external events—your workplace is a great place to start to build connections that can support your career growth. By forming relationships with employees from different departments and leadership levels, you expand your professional network within the company. These relationships can lead to mentorship, promotions, and greater visibility for your accomplishments.
How Companies Benefit from Employee Networking & Connections
While building connections in the workplace provides employees with numerous personal benefits, the positive impact is the same for companies as well. Here are a few ways workplace connections improve business outcomes:
1. Drives Innovation
When employees from different departments collaborate, they bring unique perspectives and ideas to the table. This diversity of thought often spurs innovation and creative solutions. Companies that encourage employees to build connections across departments foster an environment where new ideas and solutions thrive. Businesses that support these initiatives see financial benefits like increased revenues, shared resources, access to new markets, and improved productivity.
2. Enhances Teamwork and Collaboration
Strong workplace connections break down divisions and encourage teamwork across the organization. Employees who know and trust each other are more likely to collaborate effectively, leading to smoother and faster workflow and better project outcomes. This collaborative environment also improves the company’s overall productivity and efficiency.
3. Increases Employee Retention
Employees who feel connected to their colleagues and company culture are more likely to stay with the organization. Workplace relationships provide employees with a support system, making them feel valued, seen, and included. This sense of belonging contributes to higher employee engagement and loyalty, ultimately reducing employee turnover.
4. Creates a Positive Workplace Culture
When employees actively work to build connections, it fosters a positive workplace culture based on trust, mutual respect, and open communication. A connected workforce is more likely to engage in productive discussions, support one another, and work together toward shared goals. This culture not only benefits individual employees, but also contributes to the company’s overall success.
How to Build Strong Connections in the Workplace
1. Engage in Cross-Departmental Projects
Taking part in cross-functional projects is one of the best ways to build connections in the workplace. By working closely with colleagues from different departments, you learn new skills, gain fresh perspectives, and form lasting relationships. These projects give employees the opportunity to showcase their expertise while also contributing to larger organizational goals.
2. Leverage Technology for Remote and Hybrid Teams
For employees working remotely or in hybrid environments, staying connected can be a challenge. Fortunately, technology offers tools to bridge this gap. Using platforms like Teams, Slack, or Zoom helps employees stay engaged with coworkers and maintain consistent communication. Even small interactions, such as checking in on a project or participating in a virtual coffee chat, can help build and maintain connections.
3. Participate in Social and Networking Events
Many organizations host social events or team-building activities designed to encourage relationship-building among employees. Attending company events can provide informal opportunities to meet new people, strengthen existing relationships, and build a wider network within the company. Whether it’s a company picnic, virtual happy hour, or team outing, these events help foster connection in the workplace. Our social events at LCS help contribute to our award-winning company culture.
4. Be Open and Approachable
Connection starts with approachability. Make a point to engage with coworkers you may not typically interact with and express interest in collaborating on new initiatives. Listening to others, offering help, and being available for a chat can go a long way in forming positive workplace connections. Over time, this creates a network of colleagues who trust and rely on one another, fostering a collaborative and productive environment.
Connection in the Workplace Benefits You
Building connections in the workplace isn’t just beneficial for employees—it’s essential for creating a thriving, collaborative company culture. Employees who form meaningful relationships with colleagues are more engaged, productive, and satisfied in their roles. By focusing on connection in the workplace, both employees and businesses can unlock new opportunities for growth and success.
