Page 3 - The Leadership Line: August 2021

Recognizing Social Isolation/Loneliness

For some employees, work and the office are part of their social life and achieve their need for connection and
friendship. Some of your team members may be finding this long-term period of telework problematic or even
detrimental to their mental health.
While loneliness is an emerging workplace concern, managers can make a difference in effectively addressing
loneliness. Here are a few strategies to consider:
1 Evaluate the team’s current state of social connection by asking employees whether they feel valued and whether

the environment supports connectedness. Ask for suggestions even if they say yes.
2 Build understanding at all levels about high-quality relationships at work. Encourage team leads and

supervisors to establish bonds with employees that will enrich both audiences. It may also be helpful to have new
hires make connections right from the start. During onboarding, these opportunities exist with team lunches or
assigning a “work buddy” to show the ropes. These early opportunities for social engagement help new hires make
connections sooner.
3 Encourage employees to seek help when needed and to help each other. Promote activities that offer the
opportunity to understand the importance of creating healthy work relationships.
4 Create opportunities for employees to learn more about each other, including personal experiences and

interests outside of work. This can be done by finding new ways to celebrate birthdays or holidays. This can also be
done by having volunteer events or lunches to connect with each other.

Remember-Everyone has personal problems from time to time. MIL’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offers
professional, confidential counseling, and consultation that can help you resolve these issues. Services are available at no
cost to employees or members of their family at www.ibhworklife.com and by phone at 1-800-386-7055.

Announcements: Handbook Review

Please review and acknowledge the new Employee Handbook in ADP.
» Log into the ADP Portal via the following link:
https://workforcenow.adp.com/public/index.htm
» You will be directed to the Message Center and see Policy Acknowledgment, click on
the “…” on the far right for the option to review.