SEVEN: Social Investment
Principle #7: Social Investment
Possibly the most important of the seven principles, investing in social capital has been proven to be a critical component of success in both work and health. It can literally add years to your life. The most successful people respond to adversity by turning to their social networks, and become more productive, engaged, energetic, and resilient. (p.175)
Strong social support can stave off depression, and even extend our lives, due to the pleasure-inducing hormone oxytocin, which is released when we make a social connection. (p.177)
Scientific research has shown that the more team members are encouraged to socialize and interact face-to-face, the more engaged they feel, the more energy they have, and the longer they can stay focused on a task. (p.185)
IBM even was able to quantify this increased value provided by social connections. MIT researchers found that each additional email contact an IBM employee had was worth $948 in revenue. (p.185)
Companies can encourage this social interaction, and some such as Google and UPS have, using programs that encourage employees to eat together and by offering on-site daycare where employees can take time to visit with their kids. (p.186)
"The Vertical Couple" is a term used to describe the relationship between a boss and employee, which has been found to be the most important social relationship of all in a workplace. The best way to improve this relationship is to show you care about your employees. (p.188)
Showing support and caring about employees is valuable at all times, but researchers found it's important to show support in good times even more than bad. This sharing of upbeat news is called "capitalization," and it multiplies the benefit of the positive event. (p.191)
The key to showing support is in how you respond to good news. Passive responses, ignoring the news, or patiently waiting for your turn to talk all are less than perfect. The best responses are active and constructive, offer enthusiastic support, and include specific comments and follow-up questions ("That's wonderful! I'm glad your boss noticed how hard you've been working. When does your promotion go into effect?"). (p.191)
Building a socially invested team requires that you let social interaction happen organically. Awkward icebreakers and forced bonding breed mistrust and disconnection. Team lunches or after-hours socializing are better choices. (p.193)