In the years leading up to 2020, organizations were focused on engaging the transient up-and-coming generations while mitigating the "silver tsunami" of retiring Baby Boomers. Then came COVID-19, which added a new element to the challenges of people management in modern organizations. As organizations begin to normalize operations, their people are returning with high levels of emotional, physical, and mental stress that leadership is ill-equipped to handle.

The stress is affecting our collective ability to get things done sustainably, and it's showing up in all sorts of ways. Absent the various random interactions we enjoyed in our workplaces, building connections with colleagues remotely can be challenging. Without social cohesion, workplaces become less cohesive, and employees are quicker to burn out and turn over. These factors are wreaking havoc on organizations, and more time is being spent filling positions than advancing missions.

In the last few newsletters, we explored non-conventional methods for creating a deeper sense of connection in professional settings, starting with breathing practices. In this newsletter, we will explore how sound can be a powerful tool for building rapport and promoting a sense of unity and connection among team members.

Research has shown that when people's heart rhythms are in sync, it can lead to increased feelings of empathy, compassion, and cooperation. When we listen to music together, our hearts begin to beat in similar patterns. Additionally, listening to music can help reduce stress and anxiety, which can further contribute to a positive and cohesive team environment.

Listening to music with others builds rapport because it creates a shared experience and emotional connection. The act of listening to music together can also facilitate communication and bonding by providing a common topic of conversation and shared emotions.

Using music intentionally in professional settings can improve mood, increase motivation, stimulate creativity, enhance problem-solving skills, and support memory recall. Here are some ways we can use music effectively in work settings to create team cohesion:

Use music to set the tone: Play upbeat, motivational music in the morning to help set a productive tone for the day. Powerful openings and closing help create impactful experiences, and we can use music in the background to help shape people's experience as the enter, transition and exit our professional convenings.
Incorporate music into team-building activities: Use music as part of team-building exercises, as it can help create a relaxed and collaborative atmosphere. This might look like activities where participants are asked to re-write words to favorite songs, check in by making a beat using office materials, or having dance breaks.
Encourage participation: Encourage team members to share their favorite songs or playlists to foster a sense of community and encourage participation from all team members. One leader I've worked with had carved out 15minutes every other week during their busy season to host a "dance party" in the office, where team members where encouraged to contribute to the playlist, DJ the 15mins and boogie down.

In sum, music is a free, fun, and powerful tool for creating team cohesion in the workplace. By being mindful of musical selection and volume, incorporating music into team-building activities, and encouraging participation in the curation, we can create a positive and collaborative atmosphere that fosters cohesion, connection, creativity, and productivity.