How hybrid workforces can foster deeper human connections

In the quest to achieve a healthy work-life balance through a hybrid culture, are we losing our ability to foster deeper human connections?

- SIDDHARTHA CHANDURKAR

A study revealed that almost 76% of the hybrid workforce feel disconnected from their company's culture. Such dissociation is extremely worrying—not only from a cultural viewpoint but also from a profitability perspective. Attending to human emotional needs at the workplace in this digital world is an essential step. It mandates creating cultural alignments, functional coherence, and operational synergy so that employees build genuine connections rather than engaging in surface-level interactions only.

Amidst rising human disconnect, the concept of 'workplace vulnerability' is assuming strategic significance. Brené Brown, an academic professor, renowned author, and a researcher of 'vulnerability' for over two decades, states that vulnerability means being open to uncertainties or emotional exposures—the aspect which is important for building authentic connection and innovation. Being vulnerable is not a sign of weakness—on the contrary, it inspires companies to foster a culture of creativity, meaningful relationships, and leadership.

This article will explore the challenges of hybrid workforces, and how businesses can overcome them by promoting a culture of 'vulnerability' to foster deeper and better human collaboration at work.

Redefining Vulnerability in the Hybrid Workplace: A Key to Authentic Connections