8 Practical Steps to Strengthen Your Social Connections

Social connections can help you in your personal and professional life. They can provide opportunities for networking, career advancement, and personal growth. Social connections can also help you develop new skills, gain new perspectives, and broaden your horizons. So how do you do it?

1. Try to stay in touch with your existing friends and family. Try regular phone calls, text messages, or email.

2. Schedule regular get-togethers with your friends, family, and possibly work colleagues. A simple weekly coffee or lunch date may work, or organize a get-together with more people in a bar, dinner party, or BBQ.

3. Get involved / volunteer in your community, group activities, (professional) associations, or clubs that align with your interests. Find an organization where you can share your passions and contribute at the same time.

4. Be open to new experiences and meeting new people. This could include taking a class or workshop, attending a networking event or meet-up, or trying out a new hobby.

5. Try being more approachable and friendly. Smile, make eye contact, and signal that you are ready for a conversation. Move with deliberation.

6. Give rather than ask: Perform acts of kindness for others without expecting anything in return.

7. Practice active listening. Ask questions and listen to what others have to say. Avoid judgment.

8. In a safe environment, share something, tell a story, personal and relatable about you: Maybe a challenge you have faced and overcome, something that touched you, or a personal development you are experiencing.

  Check out these other topics:

How is Our Well Being Affected by Social Relationships?

How Do You Build Social Capital in a Hybrid Workplace?

Why Do Relationships Matter in Business?

Why are Social Connections Important Beyond a Pure Business Perspective?

Well, most of us like being liked, love being loved, and for the most part, we enjoy returning the favor.
Social connections are a foundation of our society. Not only scientists but all of us “stand on the shoulders of giants” (Isaac Newton in a letter to a fellow scientist in 1675). Modern life, institutions like kindergarten, school, religious organizations, profit and non-profit organizations, as well as our family as the nucleus of society, all build social connections.

We use these institutions, which have evolved into what they are today. The social connections we make inside and outside these organizations may instill a sense of belonging, support, and happiness. They work against depression, anxiety, and stress. They help us to live longer, healthier lives. They are as crucial to our health as diet and exercise …

Spending quality time together, sharing a laugh, or lending a listening ear all contribute to the endless benefits of relationships. Have fun with family, friends, and colleagues. 😀