The Conference Board of Canada
Employers can mitigate mental distress
associated with perceived isolation and
exclusion by supporting healthy connections
at work.
30
What is required for
effective social connections?
The first action is for the employer to
acknowledge that perceived isolation
and loneliness can be a psychosocial risk
factor that can contribute to perceived
workplace stress.
31
Employers who act with intention to reduce
employee exclusion can have a positive impact
on the employee experience.
32
Promoting
social connections that support inclusion
contributes to the growth of a psychologically
healthy and safe workplace.
33
(See "How do
effective social connections happen?")
Overcoming barriers
• Promote social connections by supporting
leaders in taking action to remove
barriers that result in perceived isolation
and loneliness.
• Remove barriers that can induce perceived
isolation if not managed effectively.
• Facilitate mental health by supporting
authentic connections at work and
embracing diversity.
30 Edmondson, "Psychological Safety and Learning
Behavior."
31 Santas, Isik, and Demir, "The Effect of
Loneliness at Work"; Rogers, Polonijo, and
Carpiano, "Getting By With a Little Help."
32 Moreno-Jiménez and others, "The Moderating
Effects of Psychological Detachment."
33 Clark, "Stage 1: Inclusion Safety."
How do effective social
connections happen?
Senior leaders and managers play an important
role in facilitating healthy social connections in
the workplace.
34
They can influence employees
to expand their work networks, get involved in
clubs, volunteer, and participate in other activities,
such as:
• team building activities
• employee resource groups
Source: Compiled by The Conference Board of Canada.
34 Edmondson, "Psychological Safety and Learning
Behavior."
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