In this episode, host Brandon Laws interviews Nicole Blevins about the importance of making meaningful connections with coworkers, especially in remote or hybrid work environments. They discuss how transactional don't foster quality relationships. Instead, being vulnerable and authentic, giving your full attention, and actively listening help create trusting bonds that allow for better collaboration, communication, and ability to handle conflicts.   TAKEAWAYS With the shift to hybrid/remote work, employees lose the “water cooler moments” for making connections and must be more intentional about relationship-building. This requires vulnerability, active listening without distractions, and making space for deeper conversations. Employers play a role in enabling connections by allowing small talk time in meetings, organizing activities like virtual lunches or book clubs, supporting employee resource groups, and providing questions to spark meaningful dialogue. High-quality connections build trust critical for working together effectively, allowing people to be more productive, innovative, and engaged.   A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST ? Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR ?️ Host: Brandon Laws ? In his own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.”