Steven Van Cohen, a public speaker and brand consultant, discusses workplace loneliness and its impact on performance and engagement. He emphasizes the importance of inclusion, emotional intelligence, and creating environments of belonging. Steven introduces the four-step Less Loneliness Framework to foster connected and high-performing teams. He explores the effects of physical distance on communication and highlights the significance of balancing solitude and connection. Subscribe for ad-free interviews and bonus episodes on Acast.
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Quick takeaways
Striking a balance between productivity and fostering connectedness is crucial for strong team dynamics.
Addressing and lessening workplace loneliness is crucial for individual and organizational success.
Finding a balance between interruptibility and focused productivity supports meaningful connections and success.
Deep dives
The importance of prioritizing connectedness in the workplace
It is crucial to strike a balance between getting work done efficiently and fostering a sense of connectedness with colleagues. Prioritizing one over the other can lead to missed opportunities for building trust and camaraderie. Both aspects are essential for strong team dynamics and productivity.
The impact of loneliness on work performance
Loneliness in the workplace can have negative effects on engagement, productivity, and overall job satisfaction. Disengaged employees are more likely to make mistakes, underperform, and think about quitting. Chronic loneliness can also lead to significant mental health issues. Addressing and lessening workplace loneliness is crucial for individual and organizational success.
Strategies for combating loneliness as a freelancer
Freelancers can apply the LESS Loneliness framework to their professional and personal lives. They can actively identify signs of loneliness in themselves and others, invest in connection by creating a social regimen and dedicating time for regular interactions, narrow their focus by identifying the impact of their work, and kindle momentum by periodically revisiting these practices and ensuring continuous effort towards connection.
Balancing interruptibility and focused productivity
Finding a balance between being interruptible and having focused productivity is key. While it is important to have dedicated time for deep, concentrated work (single-tasking), it is equally important to be available and responsive to others, making them feel seen and appreciated. Striking the right balance between interruptibility and focused productivity supports meaningful connections and success.
The power of making others feel seen and connected
Making others feel seen and connected is a powerful way to leave an unmistakable impact. By validating their importance, showing genuine interest, and creating a sense of connection, we can positively influence people's emotions and overall experience. People will remember and appreciate how we made them feel, fostering stronger relationships and positive interactions.
In the latest episode of The Unmistakable Creative Podcast titled 'How Workplace Loneliness Impacts Performance', we sit down with Steven Van Cohen, public speaker, brand consultant, and co-author of 'Connectable'. As the world grappled with the sudden shift to remote work due to Covid-19, feelings of isolation and loneliness among employees surged, leading to a significant mental health challenge that affects both individuals and organizations.
Drawing from his book 'Connectable', Steven sheds light on the real and growing issue of workplace loneliness. He emphasizes that it's not just about the emotional toll but also the tangible impact on performance, engagement, and productivity. With over a decade of experience in addressing worker loneliness, Steven, alongside co-author Ryan Jenkins, has developed a methodology that pinpoints the causes of today's loneliness and offers solutions.
In this episode, listeners will gain insights into the role inclusion plays in combating loneliness, the importance of emotional intelligence in showing up for colleagues, and strategies to create environments of belonging, whether in-person or remote. Steven also introduces the four-step Less Loneliness Framework, a comprehensive approach to fostering connected, driven, and high-performing teams.