Many bosses have described their team as “like family.” It’s common for people to feel happier and more productive when they know their co-workers are people whose interests they share, who also support them through good times and bad.
This can be especially effective for companies looking to increase employee retention. They’re unlikely to switch to a competing company if they know they will be leaving people who they see as friends and family.
Creating this strong bond between employees and bosses is all about team-building and trust. The strongest teams are those that enjoy spending time together inside and outside of work, and can rely on each other when they’re stressed or upset.
But how can bosses really create an environment where staff feels valued, heard, and get a sense that they belong?
Here are a few tips.
Talk About Your United Purpose
It can be easy for employees to feel lost in the mix when they’re just trying to complete their job duties. But if bosses are able to create a shared purpose, it will encourage people to work together better and more productively.
What is the single most important thing that your company does? If you haven’t defined this, it’s time for you, too. From there, how does each team member contribute to the greater good? Once everyone has an idea of how their role fits into the big picture, they’ll be more motivated.
Open Opportunities for Professional Growth
If employees are able to see themselves growing and learning, they’re more likely to feel fulfilled at work. This is crucial for employers looking to build a strong bond between employees and bosses.
Just about every employee wants the opportunity to learn new skills that will help them feel even more empowered in their job. Bosses should consider hosting trainings around topics like time management or delegating tasks. These workshops don’t have to be expensive — there are plenty of resources available online for free! Just make sure your team feels motivated enough by them to actually use them when they get back to the office.
Give Support
When an employer shows appreciation for one’s hard work it can go a long way. It’s always nice to hear that your boss is thinking of you when you’re not in the office — it makes people feel valued, respected, and appreciated for their efforts.
They should also consider providing support through tough times. The office can be a stressful environment, especially when deadlines are drawing near. Bosses can show they care by offering advice or even just a shoulder to lean on during tough periods.
Employee Resource Groups
When employees feel like they have someone in their corner, it encourages them to do better work. But sometimes showing appreciation isn’t enough — bosses should use all the tools available to them if they want an effective team-building strategy.
Many companies offer opportunities for employees to join resource groups, like an employee resource group (ERG). These groups are generally formed around a common interest, such as raising children or caring for aging parents. The aim of these groups is to help people feel more connected and support each other throughout the workday.
Here’s how it works: Employees join the group and contribute information about their lives. This can include any challenges they’re currently facing in either work or personal life, and what types of support they’d like from their co-workers. Afterwards, members can privately discuss ways to lend each other support when needed through messaging apps, online forums , and even real-time meetings.
Provide Incentives
For some employees, financial security is more important than others. If this applies to your staff — communicate it! Bosses should consider providing incentives like bonuses for staying late on work nights, especially if an employee has kids or other dependents .
Whether it’s equity compensation or simply a birthday gift, incentives don’t have to be based around money — they’re just as effective when they’re thoughtful.
Research has shown that employees are loyal to companies that show appreciation for their work, no matter how big or small the gesture .
Host Out-of-Office Activities
This strategy is a great way to motivate employees and help them feel more valued for their work. Plus, it can promote teamwork by encouraging employees to bond outside of the office.
Some examples include hosting team-building events like scavenger hunts or retreats where people are encouraged to get creative with activities meant to bring them closer together. These kinds of outings create an opportunity for co-workers to explore new things together, make memories, and strengthen their relationships.
Many employers have already realized that a happy workplace is a productive one- and the best way to promote that happiness is through creating a strong bond between employees and bosses.
