Much has been written and talked about concerning employee engagement, I am reminded that it is often simple gestures that help create a better workplace atmosphere.

One such approach is what I call “a second cup of coffee”, a practice I first saw with the head of my organization. He found it so helpful that it’s something I continued when I became CEO.

Once a month or so, I invited a small group of our team members out for coffee. Participants were not chosen by department or by title or position but randomly. We would meet in a local breakfast place for coffee (well, more than just coffee as it turned out) and a casual conversation. There was no agenda and they were encouraged to ask any question they would like about the organization, our plans, our progress, etc.

While I was not surprised by questions about the status of the business, I was surprised (at least, at first), by the questions asked about me.

What was my first job (cutting lawns, then bussing tables and running the dishwasher in my father’s restaurant)? Did I have siblings and what were they up to? What did I do in high school, college? What did I enjoy doing in my spare time? What about my role as CEO did I enjoy most, and like the least?

Each of these questions led to an interesting discussion, not only about me but about other members of the group as they shared similar experiences they had. As they offered their own responses to many of these same questions, the conversations grew more animated and lively. We were getting to know more about each other not as co-workers but as people.

Of course, there is much more to the process of improving employee engagement. A second cup of coffee may be a good way to start.

For more information on how to form stronger connections between and among your team members, contact me at joe@ajstrategy.com.