Let's Talk ... Has Technology Replaced Human Connection?

Welcome to "The Connect Effect Conversations," where we explore innovative ways to relearn the art of deeper connections in this digital age for leaders, teams, and customers.

This week, we're talking about the impact of the digital world on our relationships, and how we need to blend the best of human connection with the best of technology.

Tips, Conversation starters and resources to follow. Let's talk!

The Question: Has technology replaced human connection?

What do you think? (Love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.)

In my opinion, no, it has not replaced human connection, but it has created a disconnection dilemma. One of the biggest struggles I see organisations facing at the moment is the impact of the new digital world on the depth and resilience of our connections – both with customers and across the business.

Key Points:

• Accessibility vs. Depth: Digital tools provide quick and easy communication but often lack the depth of face-to-face interactions. This can affect productivity and performance, and engagement within teams and with customers.
• The Illusion of Connection: While we may be more connected online (who else has been on Teams Meetings all day long?),?people feel lonelier and more isolated than ever before.
• Balancing Act: Finding the right balance between digital and human connections is crucial to create meaningful relationships, and strong, vibrant cultures. Who's got it right?
• Leveraging Technology for Deeper Connections: How else can technology fuel connection? As global teams, and online customers become the norm, how do we adapt and flourish?

The Opportunity: The Best of Human Connection meets the Best of Tech

When it comes to overcoming these challenges, we need to relearn the art of deeper connections in this digital world.

This is a vast topic (stay tuned for more insights), but let's explore a few practical ideas:

• Face First: When in doubt, put your face first. Choose video calls over text messages to add a personal touch to your communication. Don't underestimate the power of a video-recorded message over an email, a social post with your face in it over just words, or a cup of tea shared over FaceTime instead of a phone call. Bringing your presence into your interactions creates deeper engagement, even over virtual channels, and gives you the added benefit of picking up on non-verbal cues.

Example: "Schedule regular video check-ins with your team to maintain a sense of connection. Don't rush through the agenda, add a personal check-in to build rapport."

• Get Your Rhythms Right: What rhythms does your team need to connect and communicate? You won't know until you ask. It's OK that your rhythms vary, but what will work for the team? Some of the most complex social dynamics at work, can be solved by coordinating rhythms.

Example: Establish clear goals, roles, and expectations to facilitate effective communication and collaboration as your team evolves and grows.

• Virtual Reality (VR) Meetups: Use VR platforms to create immersive meeting experiences that mimic real-life interactions. This may sound fancy, but think of it as your modern-day equivalent of going for coffee or playing a round of golf. Engaging in activities together allows for small talk and collaboration, fostering a sense of connection and teamwork.

?Example: "Host virtual reality meetups focused around an activity to make remote team interactions more engaging and personal."

• ?Digital Detox: Encourage periods of digital detox where team members can disconnect from screens and reconnect with each other in person. How do you do this virtually?

Example: "Friday is a meeting free zone, switch off do your deep work, then come back on for a brainstorming session on Teams to discuss what you've achieved."

Tips: Deeper Connection in a Digital World

• Be Present: Whether online or offline, give your full attention to the conversation to show that you value the interaction.
• Personal Touch: Use personalised messages and gestures to make digital communication feel more human. Write a thank you card. Schedule a video call while you drink tea and chat about the project. Take a personal share at your next meeting.
• Face-to-Face Time: Prioritise face-to-face meetings whenever possible, even if it's just occasionally. Quartly team catch ups? Retreats? Or drop-ins when you’re visiting different cities. (I’ve got a great keynote idea if you have conference coming up)

Let’s Talk about…

Here are some conversation prompts to help you and your team/customers discuss the balance between digital and human interactions:

• "We catch up a lot, but how well do you know your team (or your colleagues)?"
• "How do you balance screen time with face-to-face interactions?"
• "Outside of work, how do you like to catch up with friends who don’t live nearby? What could we try at work (or with customers)?"

?Further Reading and Resources

• 1 in 5 Employees Worldwide Feel Lonely (Gallup 2024)
• How To Be An Authentic Leader Despite The Lure Of Digital Tools (Forbes 2024)
• How to Do a Digital Detox Without Unplugging Completely (Everyday Health 2023)

That’s all for this edition of "The Connect Effect Conversations."

Your turn now... Consider, Connect and most importantly, keep the conversation going!

ABOUT?KIRRYN ZERNA

Kirryn Zerna is passionate about helping leaders, teams and brands to relearn the art of deeper connection in the digital age. Want to create a practical, action-oriented session for your next conference that helps leaders, teams and sales professionals connect better for better results? Then let's talk! I'd love to help you dream up something wonderful. www.kirrynzerna.com