Want a High-Performing Team? Focus on Social Connections !

 Tue 02 Nov 2021

Want a High-Performing Team? Focus on Social Connections !

 
Every leader wants to solve the puzzle of what makes a high-performing team. One piece that’s often missing is the importance of social connections. If you're trying to supercharge your team, here are research-backed ways you can foster greater connectedness:

  (1)   Invest time in bonding over non-work topics.
The best teams aren’t more effective because they work all the time. In fact, discussing things not related to work — sports, books, and family, for example — reveal shared interests, allowing people to connect in genuine ways, which yields closer friendships and better teamwork.
  (2)   Create a culture where expressing appreciation is the norm.
 Recognition is often a more powerful motivating force than monetary incentives. And an acknowledgement of good work shouldn’t just flow from the top down. Make it a norm for peers to express appreciation for one another as well.
  (3)   Put a premium on authenticity.
 It's important to create an environment where employees feel comfortable candidly expressing both positive and negative emotions — as well as complimenting and joking with teammates.

This tip is adapted from “5 Things High-Performing Teams Do Differently,” by Ron Friedman