The Difference Between a Good Workplace and a Great Workplace

At MacPhie, we talk a lot with our clients about how to go from “good to great” – pulling on the right levers to level up organizational productivity and performance. 

Leaders love to focus on process improvements and big strategic questions, and these matter a great deal. But, did you know that one of the most effective ways to improve performance and productivity is to focus on the people? 

People who have strong relationships with their colleagues report many benefits, including:

• Improved communication and collaboration. Strong relationships can foster open and effective communication among team members, promoting clarity in roles and responsibilities and creating increased efficiency.
• Increased creativity. Working in environments where we feel a sense of belonging promotes a mindset that inspires innovation. When we feel we can be ourselves, we are more likely to think big and risk being wrong instead of keeping thoughts to ourselves in fear of being judged. 
• Career advancement. Building relationships with colleagues and supervisors can provide opportunities for career growth. In addition, when we have strong relationships with colleagues, we are more likely to be open to feedback, helping us to learn and grow professionally.
• Job satisfaction. We spend more time with our work colleagues than anyone else in our lives, so it’s important that these relationships are positive. It simply makes our time more enjoyable!
• Personal well-being. Strong workplace relationships positively impact mental health and well-being. Supportive coworkers can reduce stress and provide emotional support during challenging times.

A strong relationship in the workplace is somewhat like – but also different from – a strong relationship in other parts of your life. Strong workplace relationships are characterized by trust, respect, self-awareness, and inclusion.

So, how can leaders form strong relationships? This can happen on a personal, one-to-one level, and by creating environments that foster relationships across team members. 

To build strong relationships: 

• Be yourself. Being authentic and allowing others to see your genuine personality encourages others to be their best selves. 
• Be approachable and friendly. This can be as simple as smiling, greeting others warmly, and showing genuine interest in their wellbeing. 
• Find common interests. Look for shared passions and hobbies outside of work and be purposeful and present when attending team-building activities, lunch gatherings, or social events to get to know your colleagues better.

To create an environment that cultivates relationship-building:

• Offer help and support. Lead by example and position yourself as someone who is part of the team not ‘above’ the team. Be willing to assist others when needed and offer your skills, knowledge, or time to help your colleagues succeed. If you authentically display this behavior, other team members will follow suit as they may feel more motivated to go above and beyond to assist their colleagues. 
• Celebrate successes together. Recognize team achievements and celebrate milestones as a group. It is important that team members feel valued and appreciated for their hard work.
• Stay poised and positive. Maintain a positive attitude and contribute to a supportive atmosphere. Positivity is contagious!

While these are simple tips to help build relationships at work, everyone is different. When looking to implement these tactics, it is important to do so in a way that is authentic and genuine to you.

For more on culture transformation and organizational development at MacPhie, click here.