Social connection in workplace is key to employee engagement and well-being

We live in a fast-paced and digital world which demands social connection. As organizations strive to create a positive workplace culture, understanding the state of social connections and loneliness in the workplace is crucial. Meta and Gallup conducted an in-depth survey with approximately 1,000 participants interviewed in 142 countries. The Gallup-Meta Global State of Social Connections Report 2023 sheds light on the state of social connections, and provides valuable insights for employers and employees alike.

Key Findings: The State of Social Connections

• Greater employee happiness: social connections are significantly important for overall well-being; individuals with strong social connections experience greater happiness and improved health.
• Higher employee productivity and engagement: fostering social connections in the workplace is crucial; organizations that prioritize collaboration, communication, and a sense of belonging among employees witness higher levels of engagement and productivity.
• Flexible work arrangements do not inhibit connection: flexible work arrangements have a positive impact on social connectedness, indicating that remote work and flexible hours contribute to higher levels of employee satisfaction and social connection.

Overall, the findings emphasize the importance of promoting social connections within organizations and offer compelling evidence of the benefits for both employees and employers that include improved work culture, higher employee engagement levels and enhanced employee well-being.

Connecting Virtually is Equally as Important

Virtual interactions are just as meaningful as face-to-face connections. In an increasingly digital world, technology can bridge geographical barriers by creating virtual spaces that encourage employees to connect, collaborate, and support each other. Employers can leverage this insight by implementing virtual team-building activities, online communities, and communication platforms to facilitate social connections.

Employers Can Make a Difference

• Encourage Collaboration Organizations play a key role in fostering social connections amongst employees. Workplace environments that build community, encourage collaboration, communication, and a sense of belonging have a positive impact on employees' social well-being. By prioritizing social connections, employers can create a supportive culture that encourages engagement and productivity.
• Embrace Flexible Work Arrangements One of the ways organizations can promote social connections is by embracing flexible work arrangements. The report highlights that flexible work arrangements, such as remote work and flexible hours, contribute to higher levels of social connectedness. Offering employees the freedom to work in a way that suits their needs fosters a sense of autonomy and control over one's work-life balance, ultimately enhancing social connections.
• Build Community in the Digital Age In an increasingly digital world, virtual interactions can be just as meaningful as face-to-face connections. Organizations can leverage technology to create virtual spaces where employees can connect, collaborate, and support each other. Virtual team-building activities, online communities, and communication platforms enable employees to form and sustain social connections, regardless of geographical barriers.
• Support Employee Well-being Organizations can support employee well-being and strengthen social connections by implementing well-being programs that emphasize physical, mental, and emotional health. Providing resources like counseling, fitness programs, and mindfulness sessions demonstrates a commitment to employee well-being and fosters a sense of community within the workplace.

The Power of Connection: Benefits for Employers

Investing in social connections not only benefits employees but also has a positive impact on employers. Research has shown that organizations with higher levels of employee engagement and connectedness experience increased productivity, reduced turnover rates, and improved overall performance. By prioritizing social connections, employers can create a work environment that promotes teamwork, collaboration, and positive work culture.

Improve Employee Engagement

The relationship between social connections and employee engagement is no accident. Employees are more engaged and motivated to perform better when they feel connected to their colleagues and work community. Encouraging social interactions, whether through team-building activities, cross-functional projects, or company events, can boost employee morale and deliver an improved employee experience.

Partnering for Success

At Circles, we understand that building and nurturing social connections is crucial for organizational success. Our data-driven approach and 24/7 support helps organizations develop work-life balance strategies that promote social connections, enhance employee well-being, and drive overall performance. Our solutions range from implementing flexible work arrangements to creating virtual communities and implementing robust well-being programs.

We are committed to supporting organizations who foster a connected and thriving workplace environment. By prioritizing social connections, organizations can create a thriving work environment that fosters employee engagement, productivity, and overall well-being.