Orlando, Fla. (Ivanhoe Newswire) — Loneliness and isolation, they can be a real silent killer even in the workplace. According to a survey by BetterUp, 69 percent of employees report they are not happy with their social connections at work while 43 percent of people don’t feel a sense of connection with their colleagues.
According to Gallup, one in five employees report experiencing loneliness. Twenty five percent of fully remote employees report higher levels of loneliness compared to 16 percent who go into the office daily.
So how can you get around it? Experts say if you have an office desk, decorate it. Things like a family picture, a favorite sports team, or a personal hobby like reading a book, might lead to conversations.
“To be able to collaborate with their people because purpose is why people want to work nowadays and that’s what they’re looking for,” said Constance Nelson, Lead Therapist/Founder, Constantly Healthy Counseling Coaching
Working remotely can be a challenge, but websites like Sneek lets you see your teammates all day and start instant video chats with a single click. That way everyone feels included.
Next, join or form groups for activities like an employee resources group or an employee run network within a company that supports people who share a common identity, interest, or experience.
“We all are here to connect and have community and if we don’t have that it can cause depression, anxiety, panic attacks,” said Nelson.
And don’t be afraid to reach out to your boss if you feel lonely.
“People don’t quit jobs, they quit bosses. So as bosses we are founders, we really must make sure that our people are connecting,” said Nelson.
Another way to get around loneliness at work is try and find that social person who’s been in the company for a while. They could introduce you to other people and establish more connections.
Contributors to this news report include: Cliff Tumetel, Producer; Bob Walko, Editor
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Sources:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/tracybrower/2024/03/21/how-workplace-loneliness-can-impact-your-job/
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-make-friends-at-work
https://www.themuse.com/advice/suffering-in-silence-what-to-do-when-you-feel-isolated-at-work
