How Leaders Connect: Build Workplace Relationships - Step #2
If you’ve ever worked with someone who’s harder to connect with than a cat on bath day—squirming, clawing, slipping away every time you try to get close… you’re not alone.
Now imagine… what if you could spark real connection with even the most guarded person on your team… without forcing it, faking it, or fearing it?
The answer isn’t complicated. In fact, it’s so simple, most leaders overlook it.
Let me show you the underestimated power move that changes workplace relationships—and why skipping it is costing your team trust, morale, and results.
Develop The Valuable Leader in You!
If you’re tired of being overlooked, underpaid, and unsure of your next move, this course is for you.
One of my coaching clients recently asked what to do about an employee who was, let’s just say, more cactus than sunflower. Sharp. Smart. Definitely productive. But warm and open? Not even close.
My advice? Start with a genuine compliment.
Now before you roll your eyes and think, “That’s too soft for the workplace,” stay with me.
Because compliments—real, heartfelt ones—aren’t fluff. They’re strategic. They’re magnetic. They’re a leader’s shortcut to connection. They melt tension, open doors, and create a space where real conversations can finally breathe.
Stop Walking on Eggshells.
You can lead with calm confidence. Spark trust, connection, results. Book your free coaching call today.
The Day a Compliment Cracked a Smile
Now, back to my client. She had tried it all—team huddles, one-on-ones, even talking about the weather like her life depended on it. But this employee? Cold as a Monday morning meeting with no coffee.
I told her, “Watch. Look for something she’s doing well. Be specific. Be honest. Then say it. Out loud.”
A few days later, my client called, practically beaming. “I complimented her on how she handled a difficult customer. I said, ‘You really de-escalated that situation with grace. I noticed.’ She looked stunned… then smiled.” 😊
That smile? That was the sound of a door opening.
That was the seed of trust being planted.
That was the beginning of a better relationship.
Fix the Friction. Fuel the Culture.
You can turn team tension into trust. Empower your leaders—
📞 Schedule your free leadership training consult today.
Why Compliments Work (and Work Fast)
Dale Carnegie nailed it: “Give honest, sincere appreciation.” Not flattery. Not fake smiles. Real praise that says: “I see you. I value you. I respect what you bring.”
When someone hears that? Their shoulders drop. Their jaw unclenches. They lean in.
And guess what? Neuroscience backs this up. Compliments light up the brain in the same way as receiving cash. That’s right—your words can feel like a bonus check. That’s how powerful connection through language can be. 💰
End the Tension. Elevate Your Leaders
Help your managers lead with confidence and calm. Boost trust, retention, and results - Book a free training consult.
What Makes a Compliment Genuine?
Want to give a compliment that lands?
Here’s the recipe:
Specificity: “Great job” is fine. “You kept the team calm during that tricky meeting—that was real leadership” is better.
Authenticity: Don’t say it if you don’t mean it. People feel fake.
Personal relevance: Bonus points if it touches something that matters deeply to them.
Three Reasons to Compliment Your People—NOW
Morale soars. People thrive when they feel seen.
Walls come down. A compliment can be the moment a guarded teammate finally lets you in.
Your influence grows. Leaders who lift others become leaders others want to follow.
❤️ Love this content?
When you Buy Me a Coffee, every sip helps me keep creating content you love! Hit👇here, and let’s brew up more magic together!🎁
Your Takeaway (and Your Challenge)
If Step 1 👣 was Find Common Ground, then Step 2👣 is this:
👉 Give a genuine compliment.
It doesn’t cost a dime.
It doesn’t take more than a few seconds.
And it might just change the climate of your workplace.
This week, pick one person. Maybe the quiet one. The tough nut. The “prickly pear.” Watch for one thing they’re doing well—one small win, one glimmer of goodness. And say it. Out loud.
Not for what it gets you.
But for what it gives them.
And hey… it might just crack a smile. 😊
Ready to Build a Team That Communicates with Courage and Heart?
Whether you’re a leader looking to improve your own connection skills or an HR professional trying to turn a fragmented team into a powerhouse of trust and performance…
📢 My training workshops are built to spark connection and drive results.
Your people want to feel valued. Your culture wants to thrive. And your ROI? It’s waiting.
Let’s make it happen.
I’m cheering 📣 for you!
P.S. 👉 Schedule a discovery call today and bring this training to your organization.