One Interaction That Enhances. Like many couples, Bonni and I struggled with infertility for many years as we hoped and prayed for children. After a long and difficult journey, we’ve been blessed with two amazing kids in our lives.
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After a long and difficult journey, we’ve been blessed with two amazing kids in our lives. One interaction that stands out was with a wonderful physician who helped us through this journey. His office was tremendous in providing us with the care and support we needed, and we will be forever grateful.
Recently, we received an invitation from the physician’s office to speak at their annual retreat. They wanted a patient to share their journey through infertility to help the staff stay closely connected and aligned with the emotional peaks and valleys of infertility. We were honored to be asked and accepted their invitation.
As we prepared for the retreat, I couldn’t help but think about a book I’m currently reading called Give and Take: Why Helping Others Drives Our Success by Adam Grant. One of the key points Grant demonstrates in the book is the massive difference it makes in performance when people are connected to those who ultimately benefit from their work.
Grant cites substantial research showing strong correlations with future performance when a meaningful interaction has happened between those who do the work and those who benefit from it. In other words, if we can see the results of our efforts in the work and lives of others, our performance is likely to improve.
Moreover, the correlations are the strongest for those who tend to give the most. It turns out that greatest givers among us are also those who are most motivated by seeing how their work makes a real difference in the world.
I’ve had the privilege of being involved with many meaningful interactions between clients and our organization, but I’ve rarely taken the time to arrange a substantial, meaningful interaction between our organization and the people we serve. I’ve realized that I’ve been missing out on a key opportunity to create a more meaningful connection.
The physician who invited us to speak at their retreat understands the importance of this connection. He makes it a commitment at each office retreat for his staff to stay connected to their patients through at least one extended, meaningful dialogue with someone they’ve worked with.
Grant’s book reminds us that a meaningful interaction (even a brief one) between those that do the work and those that receive the benefit of the work can help organizations move mountains. Here’s a challenge for all of us:
What could you do to create a meaningful connection between the people who work in your organization and those who benefit from their work? Consider the impact that this connection could have on your team’s performance and motivation.
Key Takeaways
We’ve learned that a meaningful interaction between those who do the work and those who benefit from it can have a positive impact on performance and motivation. Here are some key takeaways from our experience and the research of Adam Grant:
- Meaningful interactions can improve performance and motivation.
- The greatest givers among us are also the most motivated by seeing how their work makes a real difference.
- Create a meaningful connection between your organization and those you serve.
Creating Meaningful Connections
Now that we understand the importance of meaningful connections, how can we create them in our own organizations? Here are a few ideas:
- Invite patients or clients to speak at your annual retreat.
- Arrange extended, meaningful dialogue between staff and those they serve.
- Prioritize the well-being and satisfaction of your clients or patients.
By taking the time to create meaningful connections, we can improve the performance and motivation of our teams and make a real difference in the world. So, what can you do today to create a meaningful connection between your organization and those you serve?
Engage with others and see the positive impact it can have on your team and your organization.
