With traditional social institutions in decline, from the Church to libraries to youth clubs, people are increasingly looking to their employers to provide a place for meaningful social connection.
At the same time, the hybrid and remote working models have often given rise to more feelings of isolation and loneliness – so employers are increasingly recognising the value of the workplace in terms of belonging and connection. But how to entice employees into the office remains a challenge for some.
So, how can employers build this meaningful connection at work and boost employees’ social wellbeing?
This is an issue that Nic Marshall, People Director at Welcome Break, has given much thought to and is full of practical and strategic advice about in this latest podcast, which you can listen to on this Spotify link below, or wherever you find your podcasts:
In this episode, she shares how Welcome Break has cultivated connection between employees, especially different generations, and made employees feel valued and recognised. She also explains the importance of employees getting behind the values and purpose of the organisation, and how’s she’s done this.
This focus on building social wellbeing has led to teams that have a sense of pride and camaraderie, and that work better together. She shares, too, how Welcome Break encourages employees to take part in community volunteering and how those that do are more engaged at work.
Ultimately, though, Nic believes that there is no single solution to social wellbeing as we are all different, emphasising inclusion, and allowing people to be themselves and supporting hybrid work thoughtfully.
Time stamp of conversation:
00:00 Welcome to Leaders Podcast
00:44 The Connection Challenge
01:19 Meet Nic Marshall
03:32 Connection Through Purpose
05:17 Creating Space on Site
06:41 Recruiting for Attitude
07:59 Generations and Mentoring
11:27 Volunteering and Community
13:35 Peer Recognition Postcards
17:01 Little and Often Rewards
19:36 Unlimited Budget Ideas
21:17 Hybrid Work and Inclusion
24:09 Are We All Social
25:28 The Alien Pitch Finale
26:34 Wrap Up and Subscribe
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