As an entrepreneur, you depend on the people you hire to grow your business. However, fostering an inclusive culture where everyone feels valued can be difficult. One strategy to create greater connection, trust, and enthusiasm among your employees is to understand and apply “love languages” at work.
The idea of romance languages is not new. Thirty years ago, author Gary Chapman described these five languages in “The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Lasting Love.” Although Chapman intended the book to be used by romantic couples, the concept of giving and receiving specific affirmations can be adapted to the workplace.
Of course, this doesn’t mean you should shower your employees with undue love or admiration. You use the five languages to guide your actions to show team members that you see them and appreciate them. Since most people need to be known in at least one of their love languages, using all languages as described below should help you communicate with most of your employees and peers.
Love Language 1: Spending quality time together
They are going to be installed as leaders for a time. However, don’t let a busy schedule stop you from connecting with your direct reports. Your presence gives you the opportunity to guide and mentor. For example, set up regular one-on-ones with key team members. These meetings provide opportunities to have conversations that might never happen otherwise.
Rearranging your calendar to keep it open may not be easy, but it’s worth the effort. Encourage your directors, executives and managers to do the same. Sometimes, an employee just needs a little advice or a realistic sounding board to stay happy.
Love Language 2: Giving Gifts
How do you recognize employees who go the extra mile? Do you send an email occasionally? Do you often forget to say “thank you” or “great job”? Many individuals like to be recognized when they go above and beyond with gifts.
In our digital age, it’s easy to design and purchase tokens of appreciation like affordable custom trophies and awards. Such a modest investment will bring great benefits. Most trophy or plaque awardees proudly display it at their workplace. In other words, they are constantly reminded that what they are doing is being observed.
Love language 3: performing service activities
You’ve probably heard the saying, “Actions speak louder than words.” It is true in the office situation. Teams are often overwhelmed with multiple projects that all have tight deadlines. In those situations, you can show that you understand and sympathize by picking up the slack.
Even if it’s not your responsibility to stuff envelopes or get products out the door, it sends a great message to everyone. A boss who is willing to get in the hole is a boss who commands more respect. Your selfless act of service shows that you are not self-centered and that you want your employees to avoid the burnout that is affecting so many people.
Love Language 4: Affirmation with Words
If you need to be more generous with your words, now is the time to get better at texting and sending notes. The staff hears the certified words only occasionally. You don’t have to go overboard, but always be polite and sincere.
To go the extra mile, you should write supportive notes on sticky notes to leave for domestic workers. Or, they can send personalized thank you letters to their employees along with performance reviews.
Love Language 5: Touch (when appropriate)
Physical touch is the fifth love language and should be approached carefully. Touching co-workers can be inappropriate and unwanted. However, sometimes physical interaction may be warranted.
Some ways to show appreciation physically include fist bumps, high-fives, elbow taps, and handshakes. Still, use this love language sparingly and circumspectly.
When you’re an entrepreneur, you can expect to be pulled in different directions every day. Understanding and using the five love languages in the workplace can greatly improve communication and teamwork.
By identifying and accommodating the unique needs and preferences of each team member, you can foster a more positive and productive work environment. Also, using love languages to show your team members that they are valued and loved will boost morale and motivation, leading to a more cohesive and successful team.
