Often, when I asked a team member how they were doing, beyond the project or work, it caught them by surprise. As a manager, I strongly believe in caring for my team and showing genuine interest. It’s not complicated; a simple question like “how are you doing?” goes a long way in fostering respect, appreciation, and making individuals feel seen. I aspired to be a trusted manager who cultivates open communication.

Effective leadership involves creating a well-functioning team, and research supports the notion that a sense of belonging enhances performance (https://hbr.org/2019/12/the-value-of-belonging-at-work).

By caring for your team, being present for them, and forging connections, you take significant strides towards that goal. But it’s not always easy, as being in a leadership position requires making tough decisions and delivering difficult news.

Embracing the human element in leadership is essential. Open communication fosters trust, and empowers individuals to express concerns and share ideas. Prioritize respect and appreciation, as this will help you create a culture of belonging. When your team trusts you and they feel they belong, they perform at their best.