I used to have a manager who is phenomenal. She had mastered connecting with her staff simply by walking by and asking “how are you doing? Do you need anything?” These two questions confirmed for me that I was important to the business.
Because of those 2 questions, if she asked me to take a shift, I did. If she asked me to help in another area, I would. If she asked me to make sure no one was hiding in the men’s bathroom before close, I would happily do so – all because she asked me if I needed anything to do my job.
The other day I messaged her and thanked her for being a great manager and how much it meant to me that she asked those two questions every day. She responded by saying thank you and then asked how I was? Did I need anything?
I respect this woman. She found a way to connect with her staff that was both personal and professional. And she made me better at my job. My connection with her made me better at connecting with our customers.
So, what does connection have to do with creativity? My connection to her made me feel valued and appreciated. When I feel valued and appreciated, I’m much better at thinking outside the box and problem solving. It also made me feel more comfortable sharing my ideas with her.
Take the time to connect with your co-workers.
- Ask questions – ask about their families, their hobbies and what they last watched on Netflix. Ask where they got their shoes and if they have a particular restaurant they like.
- Listen and follow up – Remember what they said and ask follow up questions. Is their Mom feeling better? How was the movie they saw? Did that recipe turn out? And while you are talking, put down your phone.
- Say thank you – Did a coworker give you some feedback you were able to use? Did someone help you with a presentation? Take a moment and say thank you for the help you received.
- Let them see the real you – You don’t have to know all the answers or be perfect at work. Be who you are – ask for help and feedback when you need it.
Connection at work makes for a more creative workplace. And creativity helps your customers which will increase your sales. And that is what work is ultimately about.