More Than a Job: Why the Workplace Matters for Human Connection

Despite technology keeping people constantly connected, loneliness has turned into a pervasive issue that many struggle with. In fact, in 2023, the U.S. Surgeon General declared loneliness to be a public health crisis, citing that it can negatively impact an individual’s health as much as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

The adverse mental and physical health impacts that a lonely employee may experience can leave them more vulnerable to illness, burnout, and lower productivity. For many people, an in-person workplace might be their main source of personal connection. For some employees, shifts to remote and hybrid work environments might have eliminated their main in-person source of personal connection. Employers may have a responsibility to consider the impact of loneliness on a remote or hybrid work environment, as well as a responsibility to take measures to alleviate loneliness among its remote and hybrid workforce.

“The reality is, for many, the workplace isn’t just where they earn a living; it’s a primary, and sometimes the only, place they experience regular, meaningful social interaction,” states Erin Eatough, Chief Science Officer & Principal Advisor at Fractional Insights. “Organizations, therefore, hold an undeniable responsibility and a unique opportunity to actively cultivate genuine connection, thereby combating the pervasive challenge of loneliness among their people.”

Fostering a sense of community is essential to improving workplace culture and employee well-being. While this may seem like a huge undertaking, a few small changes that encourage more personal interaction can create. Over time, seemingly minor efforts can significantly reduce feelings of isolation, boost morale, and lead to a more engaged, resilient workforce.

Recommendations include:

• Encourage intentional connection and casual conversations
• Provide resources that support social well-being
• Social events, including virtual coffee breaks
• Mentoring and volunteer programs
• Schedule regular check-ins
• Provide social skills training

“While there’s no one-size-fits-all solution to workplace loneliness we know what helps,” explains Julie McCarthy, Professor of Organizational Behavior and HR Management at the University of Toronto and one of the authors of the article “All the Lonely People: An Integrated Review and Research Agenda on Work and Loneliness”. “To truly reduce loneliness, organizations need more than perks — they need practices that foster trust, inclusion, and real human interaction.”

Addressing loneliness in the workplace is not just a matter of individual well-being. It’s a strategic imperative that influences team dynamics, organizational performance, and long-term employee retention. By recognizing the workplace as a vital space for social connection, employers have an opportunity to create environments where people feel seen, supported, and valued. Simple, intentional actions like encouraging casual interactions, promoting inclusive practices, and prioritizing psychological safety can make a meaningful difference.

Just like employers, employees can help combat loneliness, both in themselves and in their coworkers, by taking simple, thoughtful actions on a personal level. Whether it’s asking meaningful questions, personalizing conversations, or being mindful of a colleague’s unique circumstances, small efforts can go a long way. These everyday gestures help create a workplace where connection, empathy, and community thrive.

Building a culture of connection doesn’t require sweeping changes, just a consistent commitment to fostering authentic relationships and human-centered interactions among leadership and employees.