139. Why we're still lonely at work, with Dr. Connie Hadley

Truth, Lies and Work

Welcome to Truth, Lies & Work, the award-winning psychology podcast brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network. In this episode, hosts Leanne Elliott and Al Elliott sit down with Dr. Connie Hadley, organizational psychologist and researcher, to discuss a critical issue facing today’s workforce - loneliness in the hybrid workplace.

Contrary to popular belief, Dr. Hadley’s latest research shows that hybrid work may not be the leading cause of loneliness at work. Instead, the episode highlights the true drivers of workplace loneliness and offers practical strategies for leaders to foster stronger connections within their teams.

Key Topics Discussed:

Misconceptions About Hybrid Work and Loneliness

Dr. Hadley challenges the widely held belief that hybrid or remote work automatically leads to feelings of isolation. Instead, she explains how company culture, leadership practices, and organizational support systems play a much bigger role in determining whether employees feel connected or lonely.

The Role of Leadership and Culture

One of the major takeaways is how leaders can create environments that minimize loneliness, regardless of the work setting. Dr. Hadley discusses the importance of leadership engagement and the value of fostering a high-trust culture to ensure employees feel seen, heard, and valued.

Practical Solutions for Combatting Loneliness

The episode is packed with actionable tips for managers and HR professionals to implement within their own organizations. Dr. Hadley shares her research-backed strategies, including social opportunities like virtual team lunches and casual conversations during meetings, to help strengthen team bonds even when working remotely.

Measuring Loneliness in the Workplace

Dr. Hadley has also created a Self-Assessment Tool that employees and companies can use to measure workplace loneliness. By identifying feelings of isolation early, organizations can take proactive steps to enhance the social well-being of their teams.

Featured Resources:

• HBR Cover Story on Workplace Loneliness: Read Dr. Hadley’s insightful article on why loneliness persists in today’s workplaces and what can be done about it: We’re Still Lonely at Work
• Free Self-Assessment Tool: Curious about how lonely you are at work? Take the free assessment to find out and see how your company can help: Loneliness Self-Assessment Tool
• Scientific Report on Loneliness: For those wanting a deeper dive into the research, check out Dr. Hadley’s full scientific report here: Workplace Loneliness Report

Connect with Dr. Connie Hadley:

• LinkedIn: Connie Hadley
• Website: Institute for Life at Work

Support with Mental Health and Well-being

If any of the topics in this episode have affected you, or if you need mental health support, please reach out to one of the following resources:

• UK: Mind offers mental health support and information. For those in distress, call Samaritans at 116 123 or email [e-mail].
• US: Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK or text HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor.
• Rest of the World: Visit Befrienders Worldwide to find a helpline in your country.

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