Building a Sense of Community in the Workplace
by Ivy Wilson, Office Manager/HR

I’ve often heard people say they spend more time with their co-workers than with their own family members. That sentiment could not be truer during these tough economic times. Phrases like “work husband” and “work wife” are now common vernacular as many companies have opted out of filling positions and have asked their employees to give an extra 10% (or more). This can translate into longer hours, heavier workloads, and a heavier reliance on co-workers.

During tough times like this it is important for companies to place an emphasis on building community, camaraderie, and a sense of teamwork in the work place. There are many different ways to build community while maintaining a professional work environment. Recognizing birthdays and special milestones in employee lives is one way to spread community. If an employee is having a birthday, send around a card for the workplace to sign. If an employee welcomes a new child or becomes engaged take up a collection of few dollars from coworkers and pick up a dozen roses at your local grocery store. This is an easy way to extend congratulations and commemorate a special day for the individual.

Costco is now offering gift cards at a reduced price. For instance you can purchase five $20 gift cards to Starbucks for a price of $80. They also have gift card packages in which you can purchase two $50 gift cards to local restaurants for $80. These are great to purchase in bulk and keep on hand for managers to disburse at their discretion for a job well done. 

Sometimes we become aware of an employee who may be having a difficult time. Even the highest performing employees are affected by personal misfortune. This can include illness of a loved one, divorce, death of a family member, or a spouse losing their job. There are many respectful and professional ways you can support coworkers during personally difficult times and help build a sense of community.

Vacation sharing/donating is a great way to build teamwork. Recently a friend of mine donated some of her vacation to a woman in her office who was experiencing a difficult divorce. Three of her co-workers banded together and sacrificed their own vacation to provide their coworker with an extra week off to get her affairs in order and spend time with her children during a tough transition. These pay-it-forward acts of kindness increase office morale for everyone not just the recipient.

Recently, our office came together to support a co-worker after his young nephew passed away. We had high levels of participation as employees purchased toys and stuffed animals that were then donated to Seattle Children’s Hospital in the child’s name. It was not a large expense to employees but the participation was greatly appreciated by the employee and it helped better our larger community.

Often these small acts have significant meaning to the individuals and are very motivating to employees. When employees feel a sense of community they are more vested in their workplace and tend to enjoy their jobs more. This leads to more productive and efficient workplaces.