Insights 17: The value of emotional connection

Thoughtful quotations:

“No one cares how much you know, until they know how much you care.” Theodore Roosevelt

“When dealing with people, remember you are not dealing with creatures of logic, but creatures of emotion” Dale Carnegie

“Simply paying attention allows us to build emotional connection. Lacking attention, empathy hasn’t a chance" Daniel Coleman

Context for reflection:

In our quest for “hectic industriousness” (care of: Bernard Desmidt) the value of emotional connection is all too often downplayed or lost. It is too easy to forget that we are first and foremost emotional beings, not robots from whom an exact performance is standard. People have a strong need for connection with others, for being seen, heard, considered of value, liked and loved. The need for relationship is deeply imbedded in every one of us. It is our ability to think and feel that distinguishes us from robots. 

So, if this is true, we should engage for connection to get the best sustainable outcome from those with whom we work. It follows that showing we care is important. Showing vulnerability as a leader enables people to share on a personal level. Opening-up to your personal space and allowing others theirs, is empowering and clarifies issues your team experience. Showing openness and vulnerability makes for a stronger, more intimate relationship and a more supportive team whose relationship is founded on trust. Trust, a value so fundamental to organisation effectiveness, yet often sadly lacking. Try a conversation where you clarify your space and then invite your team to follow:

• Share one thing that made you feel good about your week. Then share, how it makes you feel.

• Share one thing that made impacted you negatively in the last week.  How does it make you feel?

A few question to contemplate:

• How often do your team share their personal space with you? Good and bad. 

• In COVID times, people are experiencing massive uncertainty. What is affecting your team most? 

• Just a thought: Have a team meeting to share a change / vulnerability that is a common concern.

Drafted in all humility as I continue my journey of discovery. It is indeed challenging, with so much to remember and learn.

Andrew Pons

Reference:

Coleman D, Working with Emotional Intelligence, Bloomsberry Publishing, 1998

Prev | Next