Covve Compass is a psychometric assessment developed to explore how professionals behave in relation to networking, team collaboration, and relationship-building in the workplace. Unlike static personality tests, it captures behavioral tendencies such as how people follow up, adapt to new team dynamics, and engage socially in professional settings. Over the past year, Compass has been used across a range of industries and levels of seniority, offering a valuable lens into how different professionals engage with their networks.
In a 2024 analysis of data from 329 professionals who completed the Compass assessment, one pattern emerged. Individuals with higher job seniority demonstrated a more proactive approach to following up with new contacts. In other words, they were more likely to reach out after an initial meeting, continue the conversation, and find ways to sustain the relationship over time.
This finding contradicts a common assumption. Many believe that younger professionals or those earlier in their careers are the ones who should be doing most of the networking. They are building their reputations, seeking guidance, and exploring opportunities. Yet, the data suggests that senior professionals are more active in nurturing and maintaining networks. The question is not just what they do, but why.
Belief and Behavior: What the Research Suggests
A body of academic research offers some explanation. In a 2020 paper published in Organization Science, researchers Jiyin Cao of Stony Brook University and Edward (Ned) Smith of Northwestern University examined why higher-status individuals tend to have larger and more active professional networks. They conducted a series of seven studies involving both observational data and controlled experiments. One study analyzed responses from a 1985 national survey in the United States found that individuals with higher income, used as a proxy for status, had broader networks, but only if they believed that success stemmed from their own merit, such as hard work or ability.
Subsequent studies conducted via online panels reinforced the pattern. Participants who viewed their status as earned were significantly more likely to engage in networking behaviors, such as seeking advice or reaching out to new contacts. They believed they had something valuable to offer, and that others would likely welcome their outreach. On the other hand, individuals who attributed success to luck or external support were more hesitant to engage. The research concluded that a belief in the legitimacy of one’s status acted as a driver for networking behavior.
In parallel, a LinkedIn poll published in early 2025 under the category of Performance Management gathered contributions from over 200 HR professionals and people managers on how to network with more experienced individuals. The most endorsed strategies included having a clear value proposition, preparing before outreach, and prioritizing thoughtful follow-up. Contributors emphasized that effective networking is not about aggressive self-promotion but about creating mutual value, maintaining contact over time, and approaching relationships with clarity and intent.
From Early Habits to Senior Patterns
These perspectives help contextualize the findings from Covve Compass. Senior professionals may not network more simply because they have more experience. They may do so because they see networking as part of their professional responsibility. With increased seniority comes a stronger sense of what one brings to the table. The confidence to follow up stems not just from experience, but from the belief that the connection is mutually beneficial.
For early-career professionals, this carries a quiet but important message. The difference between building a network and sustaining one often comes down to consistency. Following up with someone after a conference, sending a brief thank-you note, or reconnecting months after a meeting are all small behaviors that accumulate over time. These actions, often overlooked, are what senior professionals practice with regularity.
And for those who are already in senior roles, the implication is just as relevant. Networks do not manage themselves. Influence, opportunities, and collaboration all flow through relationships that require care and attention. Whether leading teams, managing change, or shaping strategy, senior professionals often rely on trusted networks to get things done. That trust is built not just on what they know, but on how they maintain the relationships they have.
The Compass data does not suggest that networking belongs to any one career stage. It shows that the behaviors associated with seniority like proactive follow-up are learned, not innate. They are choices, made repeatedly, that can be adopted by anyone willing to invest in long-term, professional relationships.
Sources:
Jiyin Cao, Edward Bishop Smith (2020) Why Do High-Status People Have Larger Social Networks? Belief in Status-Quality Coupling as a Driver of Network-Broadening Behavior and Social Network Size. Organization Science 32(1):111-132.
How can you network effectively with more experienced professionals? Powered by AI and the LinkedIn community
Covve’s March Joyful Masterclass for Connection Professionals brought together a lineup of inspiring leaders dedicated to strengthening how we connect. Through a series of immersive exercises, participants explored ways to deepen relationships by sharing purpose, honoring personal stories, and confronting the spaces where growth begins. The Masterclass focused not only on techniques but on creating a feeling. One of presence, curiosity, and trust among everyone in the room.
Each activity invited participants to slow down, reflect, and step into more genuine conversations with one another. These moments served as reminders that connection is an ongoing practice built from small, meaningful actions and a willingness to be seen. Here’s a closer look at the activities that shaped this unforgettable gathering.
The Connective Power of Shared Purpose with Jessper Maquindang
Exploring how collective goals bring people together
Jessper Maquindang, Founder of FamiLEAD Management Consulting, led participants through an exercise grounded in the idea that connection flourishes when people come together around a shared purpose. With over a decade of leadership experience, Jessper has seen firsthand how collective effort builds emotional bonds and drives real outcomes in teams and communities.
His activity invited participants to think about their personal goals not as bridges but as opportunities to bring others into a journey of collaboration and growth.
Through guided reflection, participants identified goals that held personal meaning and considered who they might invite to share in that pursuit. Whether recognizing an existing partnership or envisioning a new collaboration, they practiced articulating how achieving these goals together would feel. Jessper emphasized that connection is strengthened not only by shared vision but also by the simple act of moving forward, side by side.
How to Practice It:
Reflect on something important to you that aligns with your personal purpose.
Choose one of two paths:
If you are already working toward it with someone, think about who that person is.
If not, identify someone you could invite to collaborate.
Share the goal and discuss how achieving it would feel.
Decide on one small step you can take together toward that goal.
Do Beliefs and Family Norms Affect Your Relationships? with Dr. Payal Beri
Uncovering the personal stories that shape us
Dr. Payal Beri, Global Empathy Speaker and founder of RK Empathy Inc., led a profound exercise focused on storytelling as a tool for connection. Drawing from her 18 years of experience in social impact and leadership development, Dr. Beri encouraged participants to move beyond surface-level identities tied to work or titles. Instead, they explored the beliefs, memories, and formative experiences that shaped their understanding of the world.
Participants reflected on early beliefs or norms they once assumed were universal, uncovering pivotal moments that shifted their views and expanded their sense of shared humanity. By telling these personal stories, they found common ground in unexpected places. Dr. Beri’s activity was a powerful reminder that every person carries unseen layers, and that understanding these stories opens the door to deeper, more lasting connections.
How to Practice It:
Reflect on a belief or norm from your early life that you once thought everyone shared.
Recall a moment that made you realize there are different perspectives.
Share how this realization changed your relationships and the way you see the world.
What Are You Avoiding? with Dr. Jenn Gunsaullus
Creating space for growth by facing what’s been left unsaid
Dr. Jenn Gunsaullus, sociologist, intimacy speaker, and author, guided participants through an exercise that asked them to face what they had been avoiding. Whether it was a conversation, an action, or a responsibility, participants reflected on the hidden barriers that often block connection and personal growth. By naming what had been left unsaid or undone, they created an opening for honest movement forward.
Rather than focusing on grand resolutions, the activity emphasized taking small, meaningful steps. Participants were encouraged to acknowledge what they had been avoiding and to commit to one action that would move them closer to closure or understanding. Dr. Gunsaullus highlighted that when we make room for these conversations and decisions, we also make room for deeper and more authentic relationships.
How to Practice It:
Reflect on something you have been avoiding: a conversation, a decision, or a responsibility.
Ask yourself:
What have you been avoiding discussing with someone important?
What action have you delayed that matters to you?
What responsibility have you hesitated to take on?
Acknowledge what you find and commit to taking one small, actionable step forward.
Icebreaker Activity – Emojify Your Intro with Yiannis Gavrielides and Hansen Hunt
Starting conversations with creativity and play
The Masterclass kicked off with a refreshingly different icebreaker. Led by Yiannis Gavrielides and facilitated by Hansen Hunt, participants were asked to introduce themselves using the emojis they would include on a business card, a fun and surprisingly insightful way to express who they are in a business setting.
Yiannis and Hansen led the activity by going through the emojis that Yiannis has on his Covve digital business card. Instead of the traditional ‘name-title-company’ routine, this simple activity revealed how easy it can be to share a glimpse of your personality, interests and quirks through emojis, even during a professional encounter! It was a playful alternative to the typical exchange of business cards or LinkedIn handles, turning a moment that’s usually transactional into the beginning of a meaningful connection
Participants were invited to introduce themselves using emojis in their breakout rooms. Each emoji string became a story waiting to be unpacked. Follow-up questions lit up the room as participants tried to decode one another’s emoji intros. Within minutes, conversations turned from small talk to meaningful exchange about shared passions, unique experiences, and unexpected connections.
How to Practice It:
Choose 3–5 emojis that reflect parts of your personality, interests, and quirks. Let them guess what each emoji represents. This opens the door for curiosity and playful discovery.
Use the questions and stories that come up to spark a real conversation, one that goes beyond basic job titles and contact details.
Thank You!
A heartfelt thank you to all the panelists and participants who made this Masterclass a truly memorable experience. Your openness, courage, and willingness to step into these activities made every moment powerful and meaningful. We hope the lessons shared continue to inspire deeper, more authentic relationships in your personal and professional life.
We look forward to seeing you at future gatherings filled with creativity, empathy, and connection.
In May 2023, the U.S. Surgeon General declared loneliness a public health crisis, warning that its health effects are as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Once regarded as a personal challenge, loneliness is now recognized as a pervasive issue with significant implications for societal well-being. As researchers and policymakers rally to address this issue, a fundamental question remains: Is this loneliness epidemic truly a shift in society, or is it simply an inevitable byproduct of our modern lives?
The Surgeon General’s Sobering Findings
According to the advisory from the U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy, loneliness is a pressing public health issue. Research shows it can increase the risk of early death by as much as 50%—comparable to the health risks associated with chronic smoking or obesity. Studies cited in the report link loneliness to a higher likelihood of cardiovascular disease, depression, and anxiety, underscoring its profound effects on both mental and physical health¹².
The advisory highlights the particularly severe impact on two vulnerable groups: younger adults and the elderly. Middle-aged men in the U.S. are also affected, facing high levels of loneliness and reporting fewer close friendships compared to their counterparts in other regions. This trend has left many men without the social support they need to maintain mental well-being, revealing the depth of the loneliness crisis across all age groups¹³.
A Global Response to a Shared Crisis
Loneliness might feel like a distinctly modern phenomenon, yet it’s recognized as a global issue. South Korea has committed over $300 million to combat “lonely deaths,” instances where individuals pass away in isolation without friends or family noticing. This initiative involves hotlines, public outreach, and the creation of spaces to foster social interaction, emphasizing the urgency of the issue⁴. Japan faces a similar crisis with “hikikomori,” or social recluses, and has developed support programs to reintegrate these individuals into society. Similarly, the United Kingdom has launched national campaigns to promote community engagement and social participation, highlighting how loneliness transcends borders, cultures, and demographics⁵.
A Familiar Problem with Modern Ramifications
Though loneliness may feel like a distinctly 21st-century issue, it is not new. Periods of widespread loneliness have often coincided with significant social or technological upheavals. Harvard political scientist Robert Putnam, in his book Bowling Alone, documented the steady decline of civic engagement and social participation in the United States. As Americans moved to urban centers and adopted more individualistic values, they left behind traditional community bonds that once provided social support⁶.
Today, digital technology has further accelerated this trend. Although social media was initially celebrated for its potential to connect people, it often contributes to what researchers term “digital isolation.” Despite frequent online interactions, meaningful connections have become rare, heightening feelings of loneliness and disconnection⁵. This shift has resulted in a society that is simultaneously more connected and more isolated than ever before.
Addressing the Complexities of Loneliness
The complexity of loneliness lies in its multifaceted causes, shaped by both individual and structural factors. Loneliness is not simply a lack of companionship; it is often a subjective feeling of disconnection, influenced by societal norms and personal relationships. According to the Surgeon General’s report, various societal trends contribute to loneliness, including urban migration, remote work, and an increasing number of single-person households—all of which can reduce the frequency of spontaneous social interactions once central to community life¹.
Understanding loneliness also requires acknowledging its unique impact on different demographics. Younger adults often face isolation as they navigate career transitions and new life stages, while elderly individuals are more likely to experience social isolation due to health decline and the loss of loved ones. Middle-aged men, often caught between work and family obligations, struggle to maintain friendships, further amplifying the impact of social isolation across all age groups³.
A Historical Perspective on Workplace Loneliness
In a 2017 Harvard Business Review article, Laura Amico explored the role of technology in workplace loneliness, noting that digital tools, while essential for modern communication, can increase isolation if not used thoughtfully. Stewart Butterfield, CEO of Slack, argued that while technology can streamline work, it must also foster genuine connections⁶. His insights reflect longstanding concerns about the impact of technological advances on human interaction, a pattern observed since the Industrial Revolution. Butterfield emphasized that companies need to actively cultivate a culture of trust and openness to counteract feelings of isolation in the digital workplace. His views underscore that while workplace structures have changed over time, the need for social bonds within workplaces has remained consistent⁶.
Approaches to Combat Loneliness
The strategies being adopted worldwide to address loneliness are varied, from urban planning to workplace reform and digital adjustments. Dr. Murthy’s report outlines six pillars for tackling loneliness, including promoting pro-connection policies, strengthening community resources, and mobilizing healthcare providers to recognize loneliness as a public health risk¹.
Many urban centers are redesigning public spaces to encourage social interaction. Cities like Tokyo and Seoul have introduced parks, community centers, and spaces for group activities that allow people to gather naturally and engage in shared interests⁴. In the digital realm, some governments are calling on social media platforms to adjust algorithms to promote positive online interactions over divisive content⁵.
The workplace is also being recognized as a key setting for combating loneliness. Amico emphasized the importance of moving beyond typical team-building exercises to promote real social bonding among employees. Such practices help reduce isolation, boost productivity, and enhance employee engagement, creating a more connected workplace culture⁶.
However, critics argue that many of these solutions address only the symptoms of loneliness, rather than its root causes. They suggest that a true resolution requires a cultural shift that values community and well-being over individualism and relentless productivity⁵.
Revaluing Connection in a Disconnected World
While the statistics on loneliness are concerning, history reminds us that this challenge isn’t unique to modernity. Addressing loneliness requires more than quick fixes; it demands a societal shift that values deep, meaningful relationships over superficial connections. The Surgeon General’s advisory emphasizes that tackling loneliness is ultimately a collective effort, encouraging people to actively invest in their relationships and communities¹.
Confronting loneliness offers an opportunity to rebuild society’s social fabric. By fostering genuine connection, we’re not only enhancing individual lives but also creating a stronger, more resilient society.
How the Connection Crew by Covve Helps Combat Loneliness
The Connection Crew by Covve is a dynamic community of professionals dedicated to addressing the loneliness epidemic. Focused on creating meaningful relationships and fostering social health, the Crew leverages shared wisdom and diverse skill sets to amplify their collective impact. Through our bi-monthly online Masterclasses facilitated by our connection professionals, participants gain practical tools to build stronger connections, enhance community engagement, and combat social isolation. These Masterclasses provide a safe space for vulnerability and authentic collaboration, empowering attendees to take action against loneliness and create lasting change in their personal and professional lives.
Join the movement and take the first step – Subscribe to The Networker, our bi-weekly newsletter, to stay up to date on connection insights and tips.
References
“Surgeon General’s Advisory on Loneliness”
Putnam, R. D. Bowling Alone: The Collapse and Revival of American Community
USA Today – “Middle-aged Men in America: A Loneliness Crisis?”
CNN – “A loneliness epidemic is spreading worldwide. Seoul is spending $327 million to stop it”
Vox – “The surprising truth about loneliness in America”
Harvard Business Review – “Work and the Loneliness Epidemic”
Businesses are looking for greener and more affordable ways to operate.
One such area is business cards. Digital business cards with NFC technology provide many benefits over traditional paper cards, such as for the environment, saving costs, and more features.
This article explores why digital metal business cards are better than paper cards and compares different materials like plastic, recycled plastic, bamboo, and metal.
Key Takeaways
Sustainability: NFC business cards are eco-friendly, require fewer resources, and reduce plastic pollution.
Cost-Effectiveness: Digital business cards save money over time by eliminating the need for frequent reprints.
Durability: Metal business cards are highly durable and resistant to bending, tearing, and water damage.
Why Go Digital?
Support for Green Practices
Using digital business cards can help the environment.
It shows a commitment to eco-friendly solutions that reduce harm to nature and support sustainable practices in networking and communication.
As more people care about Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices, there are more government initiatives and rules, especially in the European Union, pushing this change.
Less Paper and Ink Use
Digital metal business cards are completely paperless, cutting out the need for physical paper cards.
This helps save trees and reduces the environmental harm linked to paper production.
By switching to digital metal cards, businesses can help save these trees and create a more sustainable virtual business card solution.
Less Water Use
Making paper requires large amounts of water for various steps like pulping, washing, bleaching, and forming.
One ton of paper requires 17,000 gallons of water. With 148,812 tons of paper used annually for business cards, this means 2.5 billion gallons of water are consumed each year. To put this in perspective, 2.5 billion gallons of water is equivalent to the annual water usage of approximately 22,000 average American households.
Digital metal business cards cut out these water-heavy processes, conserving billions of gallons of water.
Lower Carbon Footprint
Making, moving, and giving out paper business cards creates greenhouse gasses from fuel use.
Digital solutions also impact the environment because of data centers and servers, but their overall carbon footprint is lower than paper business cards’ entire lifecycle.
The production of paper business cards alone releases approximately 569,191,461 pounds of CO2 annually. This is equivalent to the annual carbon emissions of about 56,000 cars. Digital cards also avoid harmful chemicals like bleaches and dyes, reducing pollution risks to air, water, and soil.
Longevity and Accessibility
Digital business cards can be edited, stored, and accessed on different devices, making them less likely to need replacement, get lost, or be damaged.
This reduces the need for reprints, saving resources compared to paper cards, which can easily be damaged and have a short lifespan. Paper cards are often thrown away after one use, leading to more frequent production and disposal.
Creating a digital business card ensures longevity and easy accessibility, making it one of the best digital business card options available.
Cost Reduction
Switching to digital metal business cards can save a lot of money.
Companies can use the money saved from printing, updating, and giving out physical cards for other resources, projects, or Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts.
Traditional paper business cards can be costly when considering reprints and updates, while digital alternatives offer significant savings, representing a more cost-effective solution for businesses looking to create a digital business card.
Comparing Different Materials
Plastic Business Cards
Plastic business cards are durable and offer a variety of design options, but they have notable environmental drawbacks.
Pros:
Durability: Resistant to wear and tear. Design Flexibility: Various colors, finishes, and shapes.
Cost-Effective: Potential long-term savings compared to frequent paper card reprints.
Cons:
Environmental Impact: Made from non-biodegradable materials that contribute to plastic pollution.
Recycled Plastic Business Cards
Recycled plastic cards aim to reduce the environmental impact of new plastic production.
Pros:
Sustainability: Uses recycled materials, reducing the need for new plastic production.
Durability: Retains the strength and longevity of plastic cards.
Cons:
Limited Recyclability: Plastic can only be recycled a limited number of times before it degrades.
Environmental Impact: Still contributes to microplastic pollution.
Bamboo Business Cards
Bamboo is a fast-growing, renewable resource, making it an attractive alternative to traditional paper and plastic.
Pros:
Sustainability: Bamboo grows quickly and requires fewer resources than trees.
Aesthetic Appeal: Offers a clean, natural look.
Cons:
Durability: Less durable than plastic or metal cards.
Cost: Can be more expensive due to production processes.
Metal Business Cards
Metal business cards are a premium option, known for their durability and distinctive appearance.
Pros:
Durability: Highly resistant to damage.
DesignFlexibility: Can be etched, engraved, or printed with various designs.
Prestige: Projects a professional and premium image.
Cons:
Cost: Higher upfront cost compared to paper and plastic.
Weight: Heavier and less convenient to carry in bulk.
To Sum It Up
Digital business cards offer significant environmental and cost benefits over traditional paper business cards.
They support sustainable practices by reducing paper usage, water consumption, and energy consumption. Additionally, digital cards provide longevity and accessibility, ensuring they remain effective over time and reducing the need for frequent reprints.
By switching to digital metal business cards, companies can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and improve their ESG practices. For organizations looking to make a positive environmental impact while maintaining effective networking and communication, digital metal business cards are the clear choice.
As businesses explore how to make business cards more sustainable, digital options emerge as a leading solution, with various digital business card apps available to facilitate the transition.
Henry Kayser, a seasoned sales professional and host of the “Modern Sales Wisdom” podcast, explores the concept of social capital and its significance for sales professionals. Henry emphasizes that networking and building meaningful relationships are vital for long-term career success.
He likens the value of networking to compound interest, where the benefits grow exponentially over time. This episode focuses on understanding and leveraging social capital to enhance professional relationships and drive business growth.
Social Capital Creates Financial Capital
Social capital, defined as the benefits derived from one’s network, including trust, cooperation, and referrals are categorized into two main types – bonding social capital, or strong ties within close-knit groups, and bridging social capital, or connections between different social groups. Both types are essential for accessing new information, support, and opportunities that can significantly impact business development and sales.
While it is challenging to quantify, Henry stresses its importance alongside financial and human capital. He explains that strong regional or industry connections can provide unique opportunities for business expansion and project acquisition, which are invaluable in the sales profession.
Building social capital requires long-term effort and consistent engagement with your network. Henry suggests using tools like Covve to manage contacts and interactions, ensuring regular follow-ups and maintaining trust. Providing value to your network by connecting people and facilitating business opportunities can enhance your reputation as a reliable and valuable connector.
Henry also emphasizes the role of networking in helping sales professionals become recognized as industry leaders. By establishing themselves as knowledgeable and trustworthy, they can attract more opportunities and create a strong personal brand. This recognition often leads to referrals and introductions that can significantly impact a sales professional’s success. Furthermore, networking allows sales professionals to stay updated on industry trends, gain insights from peers, and access resources that might not be available otherwise.
Key Points Raised by Henry:
Understanding Social Capital: It consists of the trust, cooperation, and referrals you gain from your network. It is divided into bonding social capital (strong ties within close groups) and bridging social capital (connections between different groups).
Financial Impact of Social Capital: This form of capital is as crucial as financial and human capital. Strong regional or industry connections can offer unique business opportunities, highlighting the importance of long-term relationship building.
Building and Maintaining Social Capital: Effective networking requires sustained effort. Using tools like Covve to manage contacts and follow-ups can streamline the process. Providing value to your network enhances your reputation and fosters trust.
Henry Kayser underscores that the value of networking lies in the long-term benefits it brings. By understanding and leveraging social capital, sales professionals can access new opportunities and achieve sustained success.
Covve, with its features like a news feed tailored to the interests of your connections, helps in strategically managing your social capital. It acts as a relationship copilot, enabling you to maintain and grow your network effectively. By using the right tools, you can ensure consistent and meaningful interactions, thereby enhancing your professional relationships and driving business growth.
At times where loneliness runs rampant, it’s more important than ever to take initiative and connect with people with true intention. The Connection Crew Masterclass does just that, inviting people from various walks of life to take the time to unravel who they really are alongside new acquaintances, peers, and friends.
May’s Joyful Masterclass for Connection Professionals, co-created with CultureCon, featured three distinguished panelists including Dr. Niraj Nijhawan, Tim Jones, and Charley (aka “Sparkle”) Lapomardo. The workshop offered practical activities designed to be easily applied in various community settings, whether at the office, at home, or with friends.
In the workshop, participants gained insights from the panelists who have cultivated unique experiences from their professional backgrounds and who demonstrated the profound impact of connection practices
Meet the Panelists
Coming from a scientific background, seasoned physician, and the founder of the Life Ecology Organization (LEO), Dr. Nijhawan shed light on the extensive positive influence of celebrating other’s achievements when connecting. He has spent nearly three decades integrating the latest insights from medical, social, and neuroscience fields. His work with LEO aims to create empowering work environments and communities, positively impacting a diverse audience.
Storytelling is a powerful skill when connecting with others. We constantly seek for events, perspectives, and feelings that we can relate to with people, and storytelling is the skill with which we unravel the bridges of connection. Tim Jones, Executive Director of Longer Tables, brings a wealth of experience from both for-profit and non-profit sectors.
His organization focuses on creating spaces of connection through large-scale community events. Tim’s expertise in storytelling and community building shines through his efforts to cultivate cultures of belonging.
Charley “Sparkle” Lapomardo is a dynamic facilitator and user experience researcher on a mission to help people work and live their best lives. With a rich background in community culture management and user research, they co-create transformative workshops and environments that promote inclusivity and engagement.
Contributions to the Workshop
Each panelist brought unique expertise and activities to the workshop, contributing to its overarching goal of fostering connection and engagement:
Dr. Niraj Nijhawan: Led an activity on expanding neural networks, emphasizing the importance of adopting a non-zero-sum game mentality to foster mutual support and success.
Tim Jones: Facilitated a session on “What I Didn’t Tell You,” highlighting the power of vulnerability and truth-telling in creating deeper connections.
Charley “Sparkle” Lapomardo: Conducted “Sparkle Storytime,” a storytelling exercise designed to enhance emotional awareness and connect participants through shared experiences.
The workshop provided valuable tools and insights for participants to implement in their own communities, promoting a culture of connection and belonging. Make sure to stay tuned for Covve’s next workshop and claim your spot, we’re building connections together through healthy habits and expert insights.
Over 90 participants entered the bustling recent workshop hosted by Covve, “A Joyful Masterclass for Connection Professionals,” which unfolded as a vibrant gathering dedicated to forging stronger connections. This masterclass was not just a routine seminar but a dynamic interaction among professionals eager to enrich their connection-building habits amidst the loneliness epidemic that mirrors the effects of smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day.
Joined by panelists Brian Helfman, Ben Swire, and Linda Brandt and Rebecca Cooper, participants gained access to powerful anecdotes and activities that gave them a nudge in the direction of building lasting relationships. Each of the panelists brought their unique perspectives and stories that helped shape them into the professionals they are today.
Insightful Panel and Engaging Activities
Brian Helfman: Connecting with Oneself
Brian Helfman, Founder & Chief Experience Officer at Third Nature, presented an introspective activity titled “Connecting With Yourself To Authentically Connect With Others.” Participants delved into their childhood aspirations and how these dreams have shaped their adult identities, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in building meaningful relationships.
Ben Swire: The Power of Shared Stories
Ben Swire, Co-Founder of Make Believe Works, guided attendees through a light-hearted exercise on childhood misconceptions. This session not only provided laughs but also illustrated how easy it is to misinterpret the world, highlighting the role of stories in creating deeper connections.
Linda Brandt and Rebecca Cooper: Accepting and Expanding Compliments
Linda Brandt, a leader from the Lean In Together MSP network, along with Rebecca Cooper from CoreLogic, focused on the impact of accepting compliments genuinely. Their activity encouraged participants to recognize their strengths and comfortably receive praise, fostering self-assurance and mutual respect in interactions.
As the workshop concluded, the panelists reiterated the connection to the broader mission of combating loneliness. Participants shared their takeaways, committing to integrate and practice what they learned. The session ended on a hopeful note with Randy Newman’s “You’ve Got a Friend in Me,” echoing the sentiment of community and support cultivated during the workshop.
Stay Engaged with Covve
For those who missed this enlightening event or wish to deepen their connection skills, keep an eye on Covve. This community is continuously evolving, offering resources and workshops that empower professionals to build meaningful, enduring relationships. Whether you are looking to enhance your professional network or cultivate personal connections, Covve’s upcoming workshops are an invaluable resource.
Join us in our next session to not only expand your professional toolkit but also to connect with a community dedicated to making a difference in the world through stronger personal bonds. Stay tuned for more updates and prepare to be part of this transformative journey.
Let’s dive into the heart of networking and relationship-building with a spotlight on the Covve Connection Crew Masterclass, a dynamic event crafted to revolutionize the way we foster relationships in our professional and personal spheres. With a clear mission to help attendees make meaningful friendships and enhance their social health through practical activities, this workshop offers a unique blend of personal insight and actionable strategies.
At the core of the workshop are three distinguished speakers, each bringing their expertise to guide participants through a series of engaging activities aimed at deepening connections and enriching social skills.
About the Activities
Katya Davydova, author, coach, and organizational development expert, shares her ambition to shed more joy and warmth on the world, believing that people can come together to make the world a better place.
With emphasis on the importance of intentional outreach, she led her activity centered on encouraging participants to identify someone in their community they wish to connect with more deeply. Her exercises prompt attendees to practice meaningful conversation, fostering genuine interest and curiosity about others through thoughtful questions and follow-ups.
Former CEO of WD-40 company, Garry Ridge, introduces a reflective practice in his activity, “Am I being the person I want to be right now?” Garry shares his personal list of traits that embody his ideal self, ranging from gratitude to curiosity, and challenges participants to create their own list. This introspective activity encourages attendees to align their behaviors with their values, enhancing their interactions with others by being more empathetic, patient, and understanding.
Committed to nurturing robust and welcoming workplace cultures, founder and CEO of Ridley Consulting Group, Beth Ridley, focused on the power of personal stories in her “Name Narratives” exercise. She leverages the curiosity around the origins and meanings of names as a gateway to explore personal identity and foster meaningful connections. Ridley’s approach demonstrates how asking about someone’s name can unravel deeper stories, promoting a culture of curiosity and mutual respect.
The Power of Covve’s Connection Masterclass
Covve’s Connection Crew Masterclass was designed with the intention to not only foster new friendships among attendees but also to arm them with versatile activities that can be incorporated into their daily social fitness routines. Whether it’s reaching out to a colleague, reflecting on personal growth, or sharing personal stories, the workshop offers a comprehensive toolkit for building stronger, more meaningful connections.
By participating in this workshop, attendees walked away with not just a new friend but also a deeper understanding of how to cultivate healthy, lasting relationships in all facets of their lives. They also gained the chance to join a community that cares deeply about human connection, adding to the workshop’s transformative impact. The workshop was more than just an event; it’s a transformative experience for anyone looking to enrich their networking abilities and enhance their social well-being.
Humans are instinctively social beings, seeking camaraderie and friendship throughout life. This craving for connection represents the importance of making friends at work, even if we’re not all great at it. Glassdoor’s Economic Research highlights that 89% of survey participants believe that establishing a sense of belonging in the office is critical for workplace happiness. At the same time, only 50% of employees socially engage with colleagues at least one time per month.
Making the most of your workplace includes fostering healthy and lasting relationships with colleagues, as it is proven to nurture inspiration, job success, and workplace satisfaction. Understanding your unique networking style is crucial for professional growth, building meaningful connections, and navigating the complexities of career advancement.
That’s where the Connection Compass by Covve comes into play. This innovative self-assessment questionnaire is designed to delve deep into your networking abilities, offering personalized insights and actionable advice to elevate your networking game.
Understanding the Connection Compass
Networking skills are pivotal for success in any professional field, yet they often remain under assessed. The Connection Compass is here to change that. In less than 5 minutes, this free questionnaire not only identifies your networking profile but also provides:
Tailored advice to enhance your team dynamics
Ability to foster stronger connections
A boost to your career success
Help in strategizing your growth
Upon completion of the questionnaire, you will receive your detailed networking profile packed with insights and tips.
From the deep, meaningful relationships of an Anchor to the dynamic, explorative spirit of an Explorer, discover where you stand and how you can leverage your natural tendencies for professional excellence.
A Peek into Your Networking Profile
Anchors: The bedrock of any network, Anchors thrive on deep, meaningful connections. Whether you’re a True Anchor, focused on close-knit relationships, or an Adaptive Anchor, skilled in maintaining warmth in professional settings, you understand the value of trust and mutual respect in networking.
Catalysts: With a knack for leveraging existing relationships to explore new opportunities, Catalysts are the dynamic force in networking. Identify as a Measured, True, or Dynamic Catalyst, and learn how to balance nurturing your network with expanding it.
Connectors: Masters of second-degree connections, Connectors bridge communities and industries. As a Selective, True, or Universal Connector, your ability to introduce and integrate different groups opens doors to new opportunities.
Pathfinders: Blending the old with the new, Pathfinders seek fresh opportunities while valuing existing connections. Whether you’re a Practical, True, or Visionary Pathfinder, discover how to navigate the professional landscape with agility.
Explorers: The adventurers of networking, Explorers thrive on forming new connections and venturing into uncharted territories. As a Focused or True Explorer, embrace the rapid changes and diversity of the modern professional world.
Ready to Unveil Your Networking Style?
In just five minutes, answer the questionnaire for an opportunity to understand and enhance your networking skills with Covve’s Connection Compass. Quick, insightful, and absolutely free, this questionnaire is your first step towards mastering the art of relationship building and combat loneliness in the workplace.
Discover your networking profile today and set the course for success. Whether you’re an Anchor, Catalyst, Connector, Pathfinder, or Explorer, the Connection Compass is your guide to a more connected and successful career.
Working from home has taken the world by storm since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. What once was deemed as a necessity to deal with the adversity of the global crisis, teleworking shook the status quo of the future of working conditions and employment.
Teleworking refers to the practice of working from a location other than the traditional workspace, often facilitated by technology and digital communication tools.
Deloitte conducted a survey in 2022 showcasing that over 80 percent of global organizations allow some level of remote work. According to Forbes, as of 2023, 12.7 percent of full-time employees work from home, while 28.2 percent rotate between the office and teleworking.
For a better understanding of remote work’s impact, Covve conducted a survey to delve into people’s various work preferences in Cyprus and Greece. Cyprus’s below-average remote work adoption makes it an important case to study in comparison to Greece’s closer-to-EU average- adoption rate. A core reason for varying work preferences leans towards the quality and frequency of interactions with colleagues, helping or reducing productivity, stress, and a sense of belonging.
Remote Work’s Impact Around the World
Findings indicate that Northern and Central Europeans are most likely in embracing the new working conditions with remote work.
The BBC shared that, in 2022, the demand for remote jobs had skyrocketed by almost 800 percent in two years. A 2021 IFOP study for the French think-tank, Fondation Jean-Jaurès, found that 51 percent of Germans, 50 percent of Italians, 42 percent of Britons, and 36 percent of Spaniards preferred working remotely.
There are few European countries, however, that are outliers in adopting remote work. According to the Ifop study, French businesses are most reluctant to adopt remote work, as well as in Cyprus.
Cyprus seems to be a particular case that has resisted adjusting to new working conditions. In 2020, only 4.5 percent of professionals worked remotely, increasing to 6.7 percent in 2021. In comparison, Eurostat findings display that the EU average reached 13.5 percent.
Teleworking provides several advantages such as flexible hours and reducing operational costs. Studies, including a previous research conducted by Covve, show an increase in productivity due to working from home.
However, difficulties in time management, maintaining a healthy work-life balance, and less effective social interaction and communication in the workplace have proven to be common. According to Microsoft’s 2022 Work Trend Index, 43 percent of leaders agree that remote work undermines relationship-building.
Could this be why employees in Cyprus seem to favor working in the office?
Covve’s Study and Findings
Due to the lack of research on this demographic, Covve conducted a quantitative study on the Greek and Cypriot workforce. Our hypothesis was founded on the premise that Cypriot employees prefer office settings due to frequent face-to-face interactions.
The study was conducted throughout June 2023 as a short online survey. To test our hypotheses on remote work, the individuals who participated were employed in office jobs in Cyprus and Greece. They were familiar with working remotely from their personal experiences. The survey sample included professionals of various ages and backgrounds:
82 percent of the participants were aged between 25 and 44 years old
18 percent were aged between 45 and 55 years old
The participants worked across different industries including, but not limited to, technology & IT, marketing, finance, healthcare, and media.
28.4 percent stated an indifference between the two options
Our findings among Greek employees indicated:
60.4 percent prefer working from home
18.8 percent prefer working from the office
20.8 percent stated an indifference between the two options
Interestingly, Greek and Cypriot professionals differed in their perspectives on the value of communicating with coworkers and its impact on work performance.
79.2 percent of Greek employees remained neutral. Only 13.5 percent agreed with this ideology and the remaining 7.3 percent disagreed.
On the other hand, Cypriot employees had notably different answers. Only 51.3 percent stayed neutral, 35.3 percent agreed, and 13.4 percent disagreed.
When asked about the value of face-to-face interaction in the workplace and its impact on work performance, most of the Greek employees responded neutrally with 80.6 percent being neutral, 14.6 percent agreed, and 4.6 percent disagreed.
Meanwhile, responses from Cypriot employees showed that 48.8 percent responded neutrally, and 7.3 percent disagreed. Most importantly, the remaining 43.9 percent agreed, indicating a difference in work culture.
Discussion and Implications
Despite employees in Cyprus displaying a preference for remote work, they seem to value face-to-face interactions significantly and consider it important for their success, productivity, and work satisfaction.
These findings are congruent with previous research that highlights communication playing a critical role in the workspace. In esteemed anthropologist and evolutionary psychologist Robin Dunbar’s research, he emphasizes that successful businesses need to build workplace communities of meaningful relationships through in-person interactions during or after work.
In 2023, the Economist and Euronews stated that employees are returning to the office as per employer preference, corporate needs, and the advantages of office work. With the re-emergence of office work, companies should seize this opportunity to start establishing bonds between colleagues through social events or other means to create such communities.
A hybrid work model can cater to the various preferences among employers and workforce allowing for flexibility, balancing in-person interaction and communication. Working conditions, as in many elements in life, do not have to be binary. There is room to adjust to an organization’s needs, as well as those of its workforce.
