“Research from Stanford University has shown that people who feel more connected to others have higher self-esteem, greater empathy and are more trusting and cooperative. In the context of flexibility, organizations can build better connections by encouraging authenticity and empathetic leadership,” says Karyn Twaronite, Global D&I Officer at EY.
She points to, “another US study conducted by the EY organization, 87% of people surveyed say that empathy enables greater trust among employees and leaders. In the study, employees want to see more regularly scheduled one-on-ones, opportunities to give anonymous feedback and to receive frequent reminders they are in a safe space for open discussions. Teams can also try sharing stories beyond successes and acknowledge difficulties too, as well as talking more openly about how others are modeling flexibility to make flexible working feel safe.”
CompanyRounds from The Company Chaplain provides company employees with a safe space for to openly share their feelings and experiences, to receive empathy, and listen to others with compassion. As a result, bonds of trust are formed and coworkers feel more connected.