Creating Authentic Connections At Work To Advance Your Career and Improve Your Well-being
In this episode of The Present Professional, John and Tony dive deep into the importance of building authentic work relationships—the kind that go beyond surface-level networking and lead to meaningful personal and professional growth. They explore what authenticity truly means in a workplace context, how to balance vulnerability with professionalism, and why creating genuine connections at work can improve not just your career trajectory but also your mental and emotional well-being.
Through relatable stories and practical insights, they address the tension between keeping work and life separate versus allowing real human connection to flourish in professional environments. You’ll learn why trust and curiosity are critical components of authentic connection, and how virtual and hybrid work settings present new challenges—and opportunities—for meaningful interaction. Whether it’s through casual check-ins, one-on-one video chats, or reestablishing social rituals like monthly meetups, this episode encourages listeners to approach workplace connection with intention, integrity, and openness.
They also reflect on Gallup’s famous workplace question, “Do you have a best friend at work?”—and why the answer matters more than you might think. By cultivating authentic work relationships, you can increase your sense of belonging, visibility, and influence, all while aligning more deeply with your own values and energy. This episode offers a real-world, human-centered approach to building better relationships at work—and a better relationship with yourself.
Key Themes:
The definition and value of authentic connection at work
How to build trust and openness without oversharing
Navigating boundaries in leadership roles and remote settings
Why vulnerability and curiosity are essential for workplace connection
Gallup’s “best friend at work” question and its deeper meaning
The emotional cost of disconnection—and how to reverse it
Reconnecting with yourself to foster better relationships with others
Practical tips for cultivating real connection in hybrid and in-person environments
What we discussed:
0:29 Building authentic connections at work
9:22 Building authentic connections at work requires curiosity, genuine interest, and creating opportunities for meaningful conversations
13:39 Authentic connection requires clear communication
19:08 Prioritize authentic connections and relationships
25:00 Value self-reflection and connection
Other ways to connect:
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