As an entrepreneur, you depend on the people you hire to help you grow your business. However, fostering an engaging culture where everyone feels valued can be difficult. One strategy to build more rapport, trust, and enthusiasm among your employees is to understand and apply “love languages” at work.
The notion of love languages is not new. Thirty years ago, author Gary Chapman described these five languages in The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Lasting Love. Although Chapman intended his book to be used by romantic couples, his unique concept of giving and receiving affirmations can be adapted to the workplace.
Of course, that doesn’t mean you should shower your workers with inappropriate love or adoration. You will use the five languages to guide your actions to show team members that you notice and value them. Since most people need to be known through at least one of their love languages, using all the languages as noted below should help you connect with most of your employees and colleagues.
Love Language 1: Spending quality time together
You will be required time as a leader. However, don’t let a busy schedule prevent you from interacting with your direct reports. Being available gives you a chance to lead and mentor. For example, set up regular one-on-one meetings with key team members. These meetings provide opportunities for conversations that would otherwise never happen.
It may not be easy to rearrange your calendar to be open, but it’s worth the effort. Encourage your directors, executives and managers to do the same. Sometimes, all a workshop needs is a little advice or a goal board to stay happy.
Love Language 2: Gift Giving
How do you spot employees who go the extra mile? Do you occasionally send an email? Do you often forget to say “thank you” or “great job”? Many individuals like to be recognized when they go above and beyond with gifts.
In our digital age, designing and purchasing affordable custom trophies and awards is easy. This kind of modest investment can have significant benefits. Most recipients of a trophy or plaque will display it proudly in their work area. In other words, they will be constantly reminded that what they do is being noticed.
Love Language 3: Performing Acts of Service
You’ve probably heard the saying that “actions speak louder than words.” It is true in an office environment. Teams are often stuck with multiple projects that all have tight deadlines. In those circumstances, you can show that you understand and empathize by taking some time off.
Even if it’s not your responsibility to help stuff envelopes or get products out the door, it sends a great message to everyone. A boss who is willing to get into the trenches is a boss who commands more respect. Your selfless acts of service show that you don’t see yourself as important and that you want your workers to avoid the burnout that is affecting so many.
Love language 4: Affirmation in words
If you need to be more generous with your words, now is the time to get better at texting and sending notes. Employees may only hear affirmative words from time to time. It is not necessary to overdo it, but always be polite and sincere.
To go the extra mile, write supportive notes on stickers to leave for internal employees. Or, you can send personalized appreciation letters to employees along with their performance reviews.
Love Language 5: Touch (when appropriate)
Physical touch is the fifth love language and should be handled with care. Touching colleagues can be inappropriate and unwanted. However, sometimes a physical interaction may be warranted.
Some ways to show appreciation physically include punches, high kicks, elbows, and handshakes. Again, use this love language with care and situation.
When you’re an entrepreneur, you can expect to be pulled in multiple directions every day. Understanding and using the five love languages in the workplace can significantly improve communication and team dynamics.
You can foster a more positive and productive work environment by identifying and meeting the unique needs and preferences of each team member. Additionally, using love languages to show your team members that they are valued and appreciated can boost morale and motivation, resulting in a more cohesive and successful team.
