NYSBG is an association formed to advance the interests of businesses, businessmen and businesswomen in the State of New York. More importantly it provides a sense of community for all members as they continue to face a rapidly evolving business landscape. In today’s fast-paced world, organizations are finding themselves navigating a delicate balance—honoring traditional ways of doing business, while also staying relevant and engaging. Retaining longtime customers, attracting new ones while fostering true community in an increasingly digital landscape is no small feat. The key? Blending innovation with deep human connection.
Why Community Matters
Community is not something that can just be consumed, it has to be created – it’s “an inside job.” Personal engagement is crucial for the success of any business, and it’s closely tied to the success of the people who work there. Harvard Business Review recently published an article titled “We’re Still Lonely at Work” which highlights:
“In recent years, the huge impact that work loneliness is having on healthcare costs, absenteeism, and turnover has received widespread attention. Despite growing awareness, the problem remains. In this article, the authors debunk myths about work loneliness, such as the belief that in-person work or team assignments can solve the issue. They emphasize that loneliness is not just a personal problem but also an organizational one, influenced by the work environment. Practical actions that employers can take to reduce work loneliness include measuring loneliness, designing slack in workflows, creating a culture of connection, and building social activities into the rhythm of work. Simple activities like communal lunches and happy hours are particularly appreciated by employees of all types. Work loneliness is an epidemic, but a cure is within reach, the authors contend. By helping employees make social connections, companies build a happier, healthier, and more productive workforce.”
When leaders can keep in mind not only physical, but also the social health of their employees, they are in turn taking a bold step to creating a strong culture that is not just built on hard work and innovation, but also of connection and collaboration. This isn’t something that should just be talked about, but also formally introduced as an internal goal of the company.
New Processes and Procedures Need to be Formulated
A new challenge in any industry is that of engaging younger people who may not communicate or share their passion in ways that we are accustomed to. They are also much more likely to adapt to emerging technology. While this can be particularly troublesome for some organizations who still may be following older recruiting techniques, it’s crucial to keep in mind that engaged employees can be counted on to provide new perspectives and in turn innovative new ways to work. What’s often forgotten is the treasure trove of information that can be taught and exchanged when people from an older generation work side by side with others who may be years younger than them.
We All Need a Sense of Accomplishment
Lately, more people have struggled to gain a sense of personal accomplishment and live lives of purpose and passion, something that is in high demand from today’s workers. Once business can figure out how to accomplish that, it certainly becomes easier for organizations to connect with their customers and find new paths to prosper. It’s important to ensure that you are providing plenty of feedback to employees so they can see that their work is valued and contributing to the overall success of the company. With the increase in the number of people still working from home, this can be a challenge, so more attention needs to be paid to how employees can still showcase their skills and be rewarded and acknowledged for their contributions.
The Secret To Success
The sooner that organizations can implement actionable strategies for fostering authentic relationships and creating environments where a beginner’s mindset flourishes, inviting curiosity, nurturing collaboration, and building community, the more they will empower their workers to live lives of purpose and permanently move their company forward. As workplace expert Liz Bohannon stresses, “workplaces that thrive are those led by curiosity, powered by community and driven by purpose.” Companies have to embrace this way of thinking and not just talk about it, but rather take tangible steps that employees can understand and embrace.
The Result?
Companies that take the time to build a strong community internally, will see the benefits grow externally as their customers will start to experience a strong brand built on the bonded commitment of its workers. It’s no secret that while consumers care about the goods and services being offered, more importantly they now also want to know what the brand stands for.
