Little conversation at work provides great advantages. Sharing our interests, goals, and ambitions strengthens virtual and hybrid teams.

Connecting with your coworkers on a personal level is not limited to casual workplace interactions. It goes beyond mere small talk and high-fives. It’s about being your genuine and authentic self at work. Building strong personal relationships within teams often leads to improved performance and overall success.

Creating deep bonds with your colleagues can be greatly enhanced by scheduling time to discuss common goals, expectations of each other, and what motivates and energizes you outside of work. Every successful company is built on a foundation of human connection. Just like a house’s strength relies on its base, a strong team relies on strong interpersonal relationships. Ignoring the importance of connection and belonging can be detrimental to team performance and morale.

As a leader, it is crucial to foster an environment where individuals can embrace their humanity while also being productive and efficient in their work. It starts with recognizing the value of every team member as individuals, rather than just “resources.” Building a sense of belonging and connection within teams is essential for creating a supportive and collaborative work culture.

Feeling safe, supported, and connected at work, especially in a remote or hybrid work environment, is crucial for team success. However, it can also be challenging to maintain these connections when physical interactions are limited. Building strong personal relationships with colleagues you may not have met in person can be key to fostering a sense of belonging and collaboration within teams.

According to a recent survey by Atlassian, a significant percentage of respondents feel disconnected and unable to fully express themselves or explore new activities within their teams. This lack of personal connection can have a negative impact on team performance and innovation.

So, how can organizations break through this barrier and cultivate a sense of belonging within remote and hybrid teams? While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, there are strategies that can help foster deeper connections and create a sense of community within teams.

One approach is to intentionally focus on getting to know your colleagues on a personal level. By asking questions, actively listening, and sharing information about yourself, you can build rapport and trust within the team. Tools like the Atlassian Team Playbook can help facilitate these interactions and encourage open communication and collaboration.

Another strategy is to increase awareness of the different teams within the organization and their goals. By engaging with other teams, sharing experiences, and aligning goals, you can foster a sense of unity and collaboration across the organization. Building strong relationships and connections with other teams can lead to increased productivity and innovation.

Setting aside time for casual conversations and relationship-building activities can also help create a sense of community within teams. By incorporating icebreakers, personal check-ins, and opportunities for team members to share about their lives outside of work, you can deepen connections and foster a supportive and inclusive work culture.

Finally, sharing your knowledge and experience with new team members and leveraging your network to help them build connections can further strengthen teamwork and collaboration. By taking the time to mentor and support new colleagues, you can facilitate their integration into the team and promote a sense of belonging and camaraderie.

Overall, fostering a sense of belonging and connection within remote and hybrid teams is essential for building strong and successful teams. By prioritizing personal relationships, open communication, and collaboration, organizations can create a supportive and inclusive work environment where team members feel valued, supported, and connected. Ultimately, investing in personal connections at work can lead to improved performance, increased innovation, and a more positive work experience for everyone involved.