The concept of community #wellbeing and the essence of creating #thriving #communities, no matter where they are, is critical to a life well lived.
Gallup’s research highlights that community wellbeing is a key differentiator between a good life and a great life. People who thrive in their communities often find their lives exceeding their wildest expectations.
On an organisational level, fostering community wellbeing means building a sense of community within our workplaces or industries. It's also about connecting your people to something bigger than themselves, amplifying the impact your business can make.
In The Cult of Monday Podcast, we have created a limited series on Wellbeing. In episode 6 we speak with Ryan Evans, Managing Director of Chalfont Consulting and Aurec. We also speak with Sharon Gray, Head of People & Culture at OzHarvest. In the organisations where Sharon and Ryan work, there is a sense of #belonging and #connection, vital to being human.
Liking who you work with, believing in what you do, means you want to stay and make an impact.
In order to like people, you have to get to know them. In order to believe in what you do, you need to hear and understand the purpose, vision, values and behaviours central to the way that a business operates.
Ways that business leaders can encourage people getting to know one another and to fostering a sense of community are shared below for consideration. There is no perfect template for creating a community within your business. It is all about understanding the #context within which you operate, including the #services and #products you offer and the #customers you serve.
1. Communicate, communicate & communicate
Regular meetings: Hold regular team meetings where everyone can share updates, ideas, and feedback. This helps in building trust and transparency.
Employee listening strategy: Consider deploying an employee listening strategy so that you can hear, consider and act on concerns and suggestions.
2. Nothing beats in-person connection time
Social Events: Plan social events such as team lunches, outings, collaboration sessions, to help employees get to know one another on a personal front.
Workshops and Training: Conduct workshops and training sessions that not only enhance skills but also promote greater teamwork and collaboration.
3. Recognise and celebrate that which is important in your business
Employee Recognition Programs: Implement programs to recognize and reward employees for their hard work and achievements.
Celebrate Milestones: Celebrate personal and professional milestones, such as birthdays, work anniversaries, and project completions.
4. Foster difference and unite around what we have in common
For Purpose Days: encourage people to step out of their day job to spend time in another job.
Measurement: Develop clear metrics to measure, report on and act on. Consider measuring on the impact that you each have on your purpose and the people, industries and customers you serve.
5. Create a shared vision and purpose
Mission and Values: Clearly communicate the organisation’s mission, vision, and values to ensure everyone is aligned and working towards common goals
Community Engagement: Encourage employees to participate in community service or volunteer activities, fostering a sense of purpose and belonging.
6. Provide opportunities for personal and professional growth
Career Development: Offer opportunities for career advancement and professional development.
Mentorship Programs: Establish mentorship programs where experienced employees can guide and support newer team members.
7. Consider what might be important to your people
Flexible Work Arrangements: Offer flexible working hours or remote work options
Wellness Programs: Implement wellness programs that focus on physical, career, social, community, financial and career wellbeing
Is there a specific area you’d like to focus on or any particular challenges you’re facing in building community within your organization? Get in touch with us at hello@cultofmonday.com
Have a listen to episode 6 of the Cult of Monday Podcast here.
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