We spend a large portion of our life at work, and its influence on our daily lives is becoming increasingly important. Many of us spend more time at work than doing any other activity. Including sleep. Yowza. Our primary place for social interaction is now the workplace. Here's 10 ideas you can use today and make a connection-rich workplace tomorrow.

1. Your team is important, so let them have
a hand in interviews with panel-style
formats. This shows their opinion matters,
and also introduces the job candidate to
potential work peers (and your workplace
culture) before their first day.
1. MEET CUTE,
AT WORK
Just like a Scout, having a formal work
ambassador will help you navigate the
workplace wilderness. This go-to resource
for a new hire is a built-in support system,
encouraging connections right away.
2. BUDDY
SYSTEM
Donuts, bagels, cookies, popcorn or another snack of choice, any food station by a new hire’s
station will act as a planned interaction to encourage connections early.
Take advantage of tools—including social platforms—that will allow coworkers to recognize,
appreciate and celebrate each other both formally and informally.
Incorporate team-based reward and
recognition into your organization. Consider
surprising the team with a bulk coffee run,
special snacks, desk swag or a group lunch.
3. BREAK OUT THE
SUGGESTION BOX
6. FIST-BUMPS
ALL AROUND
10. LIVE FOR THE APPLAUSE
8. SPREAD THE
WARM FUZZIES
9. NEED A
MAKEOVER?
Show your employees that you’re
listening, and what they say is important.
Have a formal way for suggestions to
be submitted—and make sure to
implement/report back on progress.
4. LET THE
ROBOT DO IT
Leaders have very full plates. Leverage
AI to automate tasks, freeing up time
spent face-to-face with coworkers. By
increasing your interactions with your
team, you’ll strengthen relationships
and be a better boss.
5. FREE FOOD
7. DON’T BLOCK,
BENEFIT
Chat, video and social media platforms
can bolster employee interactions.
In fact, organizations with internal
social media tools increased employee
satisfaction 20% on average.
Have a space that welcomes and
encourages connections. Whether a break
room or informal brainstorm hub, create
a cheery spot people want to use.
Encouraging volunteerism is a win-win for
everyone. Not only does your community
benefit, colleagues have a great chance to
work with each other outside the office in
a whole new way.