In the ever-evolving workplace, how companies treat their staff is more crucial than ever. International Performance Coach Alvin Govender, provides compelling insights into how organisations can profoundly impact their employees’ lives through genuine care and empathetic leadership.
Govender emphasizes that the treatment of staff is not just about fulfilling professional obligations but about creating an environment where employees feel valued and understood.
“Companies are starting to realise the deep impact of their treatment of staff and the repercussions of not showing their people when they are valued,” he states. This realization has led to a shift from superficial wellness initiatives to more substantial investments in employee well-being.
Emotional well-being and professional boundaries
Govender points out that emotional connection in the workplace is still a relatively new concept, but it is rapidly gaining traction. He explains that the improvement in workplace etiquette over the past decade is promising and should continue to evolve.
“The best word to discuss when talking about authenticity in relationships is ‘connection’,” Govender notes. However, he emphasizes that connection must be built on trust. “In many cases where employees are feeling disengaged, the truth is there has been a breach of trust.”
Building trust does not necessarily mean sharing every detail of company strategy with employees. Instead, it involves creating a safe environment where employees feel secure and valued. Govender advises managers to engage their teams through periods of uncertainty and maintain professional boundaries that foster trust.
The challenges of remote work
With the rise of remote and hybrid working conditions, the dynamics of workplace relationships have changed. Govender acknowledges that while remote work presents challenges, it is not an excuse for a breakdown in trust or unhealthy work cultures. “Connections and relationships can be built online,” he asserts. Effective communication and maintaining professional standards are key to ensuring that remote work does not erode the sense of connection among team members.
Practical steps for leaders
Govender offers several practical steps for leaders to build and maintain authentic connections with their teams:
- Trust: Avoid allowing toxic behavior to infiltrate the workplace. Ensure your team trusts that you will address issues that require intervention.
- Connection: Foster genuine connections by being yourself and encouraging others to be themselves at work.
- Communication: Regularly communicate with team members, not just during deadlines. Quick project catch-ups can help resolve challenges early.
- Inclusivity: Socialize with all team members equally. Ensure one-on-one time with each member during work functions.
- Personal Check-Ins: Conduct casual check-ins on team members’ personal lives. Keep these interactions light but stay informed about their well-being.
- Safe Spaces: Protect or appropriately share important information based on existing standards and policies.
- Effort: Recognize that visible effort, even when plans fail, builds trust.
- Servant Leadership: Lead alongside your team, being present and supportive throughout their journey.
As Govender emphasises, the treatment of employees has far-reaching implications for their overall well-being and the success of the organisation. Companies must move beyond superficial measures and invest in creating environments where employees feel genuinely valued and connected. Through trust, effective communication, and empathetic leadership, organisations can build strong, resilient teams that thrive in any work environment.
