How to Develop Lasting Personal Connections in a Digital World

Virtual communications have dramatically changed the way we interact with others in the workplace. With the ability to immediately access the information we need to do our jobs, we become more productive.

This can be a great thing, but over time it can lead to less personal engagement with our colleagues. Picking up the phone or stopping by someone’s desk to ask a question becomes more of a chore because we can send an email instead and continue on to the next task.

Of course there is immense value in digital communication. Social media can greatly improve the way businesses communicate with their customers, and through the use of video calling tools like Skype, instant messaging, and email, businesses can significantly reduce costs.

But when we avoid personal contact with colleagues, feelings of isolation can set in. There isn’t a mobile app or social platform that can replace the power of face-to-face communication.

Here are four suggestions to make relationships more real and meaningful in the workplace:

1. Get out of the office. One of the best ways to build a relationship with a work colleague is simply to get out of the office. Personal relationships are cultivated when people can relax and be themselves. If a team building activity is needed, try thinking outside the box and doing something different that everyone can enjoy. I recently heard of some work colleagues taking an evening to do a “wine and design” activity as a way to celebrate a recent success. Through these types of activities people can experience something new together, take opportunities to socialize and get to know each other in a more personal setting, and walk away with a positive and fun memory.

2. Seek learning, be inspired. Attending an industry conference, seminar or workshop can be an enriching way to gain business knowledge while making connections with other professionals and thought leaders in your field. You may be able to learn from others who have been through similar struggles and can provide interesting insights. These types of events also provide valuable opportunities to network and share ideas. Take every opportunity to increase your knowledge, be inspired and motivated, discuss new concepts, and exchange ideas with peers. Sharing among peers is one of the best benefits of a conference.

3. The mentor/mentee relationship. Participating in a mentorship program is a great way to build a lasting and mutually beneficial connection. Mentoring breaks through the formalities and allows both parties to let down their guard. By being open about setbacks, goals, and future plans, the mentor and mentee are able to work together and learn from each other. As a mentee, you can benefit from the guidance and unbiased perspective of someone you admire and trust. A mentor, on the other hand, learns how to be a more effective manager and how to handle situations with greater understanding.

4. Varying levels of connection. The interactions that you have with others don’t have to be frequent to be valuable. There is value in all different levels of relationships whether they are nurtured on a daily basis or treated more casually with intermittent communication. At all levels, it’s important to understand how the relationship can be mutually beneficial. Consider how you can help them accomplish their goals, and vice versa.

Establishing personal connections takes time, effort, and energy. Whether the connection is weak or strong, taking the time to further develop them will someday pay off.