Build Relationships Beyond Work: The Secret to Stronger Teams and Better Business
In today’s increasingly remote and fast-paced work environment, building personal connections with your team is often overlooked. Yet, the most successful businesses I’ve worked with share a common trait: their leaders understand that strong relationships extend beyond day-to-day tasks. When teams feel genuinely connected on a personal level, they collaborate more effectively, navigate challenges with resilience, and foster a culture of trust and loyalty. Investing in relationships isn’t just a feel-good gesture; it’s a proven strategy for long-term success.
The Power of Connection
Humans are hardwired for connection, and that doesn’t change when we step into the workplace. Studies like those by Gallup in Strengths-Based Leadership demonstrate that teams with high levels of engagement and trust—often rooted in personal connections—are more productive, innovative, and resilient. Leaders who take the time to know their team members as individuals can unlock hidden potential and foster a sense of belonging that motivates employees to go above and beyond.
Beyond the Surface: Building Genuine Relationships
Building meaningful relationships at work requires intentionality. It’s not about small talk or forced team-building exercises; it’s about taking an authentic interest in your team members’ lives, values, and aspirations. Leaders who embrace this approach embody the principles outlined in Dale Carnegie’s timeless book, How to Win Friends and Influence People. Carnegie’s advice to “be genuinely interested in other people” remains as relevant today as ever.
For example, something as simple as remembering personal milestones—a child’s birthday, a recent vacation, or a team member’s professional achievement—can deepen bonds and show that you value them beyond their work contributions. These small acts of kindness and attention create an environment where people feel seen and appreciated.
Bridging Cultures and Strengthening Remote Teams
In today’s global and remote work environment, fostering personal connections can also bridge cultural divides and create stronger, more cohesive teams. Amy C. Edmondson’s The Fearless Organization emphasizes the importance of psychological safety in diverse teams. When people feel safe to share their perspectives and experiences, it fosters innovation and collaboration. Leaders who build relationships beyond work help create this safety by reducing misunderstandings and encouraging open communication.
Practical tools like virtual coffee chats, team Slack channels dedicated to hobbies or interests, or even informal check-ins during meetings can help remote teams stay connected. It’s about creating spaces where people feel comfortable being themselves and sharing aspects of their lives outside the office.
The Business Benefits of Friendship
Relationships beyond work aren’t just about morale; they also deliver measurable business results. According to the Harvard Business Review, employees with close friends at work are more engaged, perform better, and are less likely to leave their jobs. These relationships foster collaboration, reduce conflict, and create a sense of camaraderie that drives teams to achieve more together.
Moreover, personal connections often lead to more effective communication. When team members trust and understand one another, they’re more likely to provide constructive feedback, share ideas openly, and resolve conflicts quickly. This creates a foundation for better decision-making and stronger overall performance.
Practical Tips for Leaders
Take Time to Listen: Schedule regular one-on-one check-ins to learn about your team members’ goals, challenges, and interests. Active listening shows that you care and builds trust.
Celebrate Personal Milestones: Acknowledge birthdays, anniversaries, or personal achievements with a message, gift, or public recognition. Small gestures go a long way.
Encourage Informal Interactions: Create opportunities for your team to connect outside of work, such as team lunches, off-site activities, or virtual happy hours for remote teams.
Be Vulnerable: Share your own experiences and challenges. Authenticity fosters deeper connections and encourages others to open up.
Create Shared Experiences: Whether it’s a team-building retreat, volunteering together, or simply bonding over a shared interest, shared experiences build stronger relationships.
Conclusion
Building relationships beyond work is more than a leadership tactic; it’s a way to create a culture where people feel valued, trusted, and connected. By fostering genuine personal connections, leaders can unlock the full potential of their teams, enhance collaboration, and drive long-term success. In the end, business is about people, and investing in those relationships is one of the most impactful things a leader can do.
At Barthell Digital we are obsessed with the science and art of building a productive and fun team environment. If you’re interested in hearing more from our learnings and considering working with us, don’t hesitate to reach out!
