How often are you working in a group with team members you vaguely know? How well do you know the people and leaders in your department? How well do you know the leaders of your organization?
Fostering authentic relationships at work can help you become a catalyst for building a thriving workforce, where individuals are more engaged in their work, offer ideas, and feel a sense of purpose in their daily tasks. The need to connect is even more important as the shift to working from home becomes the norm – leaving us without the opportunity to have conversations with others in the breakroom or while walking together to and from meetings.
During United Way of Central Iowa’s Day of Action in September, we offered an opportunity to allow people across the community to quickly build meaningful connections with others over a virtual meeting platform. Conversations Powered by Purpose had participants break into small-group discussions to answer personal questions in 15-minute segments. Questions, such as “What motivates you to achieve your goals?” and “How can you use your strengths each day?” provided the opportunity for participants to share more about themselves to uncover their purpose, get ideas from others on how to develop their sense of purpose, and create connections that they can continue to foster beyond the meeting.
One participant shared about the experience, “It’s rare to leave a Zoom with MORE energy than when I first logged in, but this put some pep into my day.”
Here are five ways to apply Conversations Powered by Purpose at your workplace to help build relationships and foster your team’s sense of purpose.
Are you interested in having a Conversation Powered by Purpose with your organization? United Way of Central Iowa is willing to facilitate for your team! It’s our hope this experience helps you lead more purpose-driven conversations in your workplace to maximize your talented team’s commitment to the work. Connect with Ramona (Moni) Gaukel, Volunteer Engagement Officer, at ramona.gaukel@unitedwaydm.org to learn more.