In our fast-paced world, where the average attention span has dwindled significantly and social media videos are expected to captivate us in mere seconds, the notion of connection has become more crucial than ever. We live in a society where screen addiction is on the rise, and ironically, people are feeling increasingly disconnected. It’s in this environment that I find myself contemplating a change in my position title to “Connection Manager.”
Recently, I realised the word ‘connection’ echoed in every idea or comment I shared during a committee meeting for a local charity event. This revelation led me to appreciate the vital role that connection plays in all aspects of our lives—professionally and personally. But what do I mean by connection?
Whether you’re hosting a corporate event, organising a fundraiser, marketing your business, or working with your team, connection and a sense of belonging are at the heart of it all. Connection is about creating meaningful interactions and fostering a sense of community. It’s about understanding and addressing the needs and emotions of those around us.
When people feel connected to a cause, they give more. When they feel connected to their employer and team, they enjoy work more and deliver better outcomes. When they feel connected to your brand and values, they feel more aligned and are more likely to recommend you. When people feel connected to your mission, they are on the same ship, working towards shared goals.
For leaders, Simon Sinek says, “A team is not a group of people who work together. A team is a group of people who trust each other.” This statement is backed up by the data, a study by Deloitte found that 79% of organisations believe fostering a sense of belonging is important for their success, and 93% agree that a sense of belonging drives organisational performance. Furthermore, research by the Inkling Group shows that employees with high levels of connection in the workplace have 34% higher strategic planning skills, 34% greater goal attainment, 27% more job satisfaction, and a 23% boost in a growth mindset.
In the corporate world, events are not just about networking; they’re about building meaningful relationships that can lead to long-term partnerships. As Adam Grant, perfectly describes, “You never know where somebody’s going to end up. It’s not just about building your reputation; it really is about being there for other people.” And when you are ‘there for people’ you are connecting.
Fundraisers are not merely about raising money; they’re about connecting with people who share a common cause and vision. Marketing is no longer about selling a product; it’s about engaging with your audience to achieve a desired outcome and building a loyal customer base in the process. Within teams, connection is the glue that holds everything together, ensuring that everyone feels valued, heard, and motivated.
As a new year commences, I want to thank everyone I crossed paths and ‘connected’ with in 2024. It’s these connections that make work meaningful. Reflecting on this, I realise that my role has always been about connection—facilitating it, nurturing it, and leveraging it to achieve greater outcomes. In 2025, I am committed to prioritising and championing the power of connection in every aspect of my work.
In this ever-evolving digital age, the human element of connection is more important than ever. By focusing on building strong, genuine connections, we can create a more cohesive, engaged, and thriving community. As I review our strategic plans for the year ahead, I will be exploring every opportunity to foster deeper connections within our professional circles and beyond. Here’s to a year of meaningful engagement and shared successes.
Community & Brand Manager
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