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Unlocking Workplace Success: What Leaders Need to Build Community

Update Building Community: The Key to Thriving Workplaces In today’s fast-paced business environment, the ability to cultivate a strong community at work is more critical than ever. Just as a forest thrives through the interconnected roots and fungal networks of its trees, so too can organizations flourish when their members are deeply connected. This analogy offers a striking visualization of what we’ll refer to as a "superorganization"—an environment where collaboration, trust, and mutual support are second nature. But how do leaders intentionally cultivate these crucial connections among their teams? The Power of Small Gestures Within superorganizations, success isn't solely a product of grand initiatives or extensive retreats. Rather, it's rooted in the small, consistent interactions that foster a sense of belonging among employees. According to recent research by Mercurio et al. (2023), small daily moments are essential in transforming individuals into a cohesive team, which fundamentally enhances the work experience. For example, something as simple as checking in with an employee about their weekend can significantly increase their engagement. As found in surveys, one of the top indicators of a strong workplace community is when employees feel their leaders genuinely care about their lives outside of work. This simple inquiry opens the door for genuine connection. More importantly, it conveys to the employee that they are valued—creating a twofold benefit. Not only does it enhance the employee's sense of worth, but it also encourages them to contribute more actively to their work environment. Turning Meetings into Moments of Care Meetings often conjure feelings of dread or monotony. However, leaders have the power to transform these gatherings into “moments of care.” As leaders, when they ask about personal lives during meetings and actively listen, high-quality connections arise. Research shows that just 40 seconds of focused attention can create a meaningful connection (Dutton, 2003). Consider integrating a practice in your meetings where personal stories or experiences are shared. The result can be a more engaged and united team that feels more connected to one another and the organization as a whole. This not only boosts morale but can also result in improved team collaboration and productivity. Synchronized Breaks: A Swedish Tradition The idea of Fika, a traditional Swedish coffee break, is a powerful way to instill moments of connection into the workday. At Quartz, employees participate in synchronized breaks that encourage conversation and sharing. Initially, these breaks might feel forced; however, they soon lead to personal revelations, celebrations, and a boost in camaraderie. Research suggests that interacting during these breaks not only enhances morale but can also yield a significant increase in productivity. For instance, a bank that adopted this practice reported an extra $15 million in annual revenue and a 10 percent boost in employee satisfaction. Hence, such initiatives can lead to meaningful financial and relational benefits. Creating a Culture of Care: More Than Just Words Above all, it’s crucial for leaders to recognize that cultivating a supportive community is not just about implementing strategies or practices—it’s about embodying a culture of care. When team members see their leaders actively engaging in this manner, it establishes a positive norm that others will naturally follow. This creates an environment where everyone feels responsible for nurturing the community. To create this culture, leaders must model vulnerability by sharing their own experiences, leading with authenticity, and showing empathy towards their team members' challenges. When a leader can express understanding regarding an employee's personal circumstances, it helps reinforce trust and connection among all team members. Measuring Success: Community as a Metric It's essential for organizations to track the effectiveness of their community-building initiatives. With the rise of workplace analytics, executives can measure how employee engagement correlates with aspects of community. Kelly (2022) points to employee satisfaction metrics as an effective metric for gauging workplace culture. Furthermore, organizations can implement pulse surveys to assess feelings of belonging and community. This might reveal crucial insights that can help shape future initiatives aimed at strengthening connections among employees. Conclusion: The Call to Action Building a strong sense of community in the workplace is not a one-time endeavor; it requires consistent, daily efforts and a commitment to fostering genuine connections. For executives and leaders, understanding these basic yet powerful actions can lead to transformative impacts on their organizations. It’s the accumulated effects of care, curiosity, and respect that shapes the environment in which employees work—ideally transitioning towards a thriving culture where everyone feels valued and connected. Take action today: Start by turning your next team meeting into a moment of care. Reach out to your employees—take notice of their wellbeing and foster connections that matter. As you implement more of these practices, the results may surprise you in the most positive ways.