Six Ways to Grow Social Connections on the Job

A new book by psychologist Melanie Katzman, Connect First: 52 Simple Ways to Ignite Success, Meaning, and Joy at Work, offers numerous ideas for infusing more positive energy into our workplaces. Here are just a small sample of Katzman’s ideas for creating strong relationships and a happier, more productive workplace

Smile

Smiling has social significance, helping to grease the wheels of connection. People who smile are considered more likable and competent.

Try to think of something that delights you, which may produce a spontaneous grin that will make an impression on those around you.

Tell stories

Stories stimulate oxytocin, the neurochemical that motivates cooperation.

When people hear personal stories, they tend to more readily open up themselves and care more about what you are trying to accomplish.
Stories that speak of overcoming struggle can be particularly emotive and make us feel bonded together as human beings.

Admit to mistakes

Being able to let people know when you’ve made a mistake can change the dynamic of social situations.

It makes people feel safer with you knowing you won’t judge them for being imperfect
Workplaces that encourage mistake-sharing may be more cohesive and innovative than those that do not.

Respond promptly

Not responding leaves coworkers feeling as if you don’t care about them or their work, and wastes time as they try to figure out what to do with your silence

Showing consideration toward coworkers by acknowledging their communications promptly is a form of civility, which is important to workplace culture

Create shared rituals

Building opportunities for shared ritual in the workplace-in small and large ways-can be good for morale and organizational health.

Examples: Playing celebratory music for two minutes whenever your company completes a new deal, or recognizing employee anniversaries to show people their loyalty is valued.