Rediscovering Human Connection in Leadership – Especially Now
Graduation season is a time of new beginnings and reflection. For leaders, it’s also an invitation to revisit the fundamentals of meaningful leadership, especially human connection.
In an age where efficiency is prized and digital tools dominate, we often forget that real leadership starts with presence. With care. With a conversation that says, “I see you.”
Why Human Connection Matters
- It grounds communication: People listen when they feel seen.
- It reduces conflict: Empathy softens edges and opens understanding.
- It drives performance: Employees who feel valued show up more fully.
Three Ways to Reconnect as a Leader
- Ask with purpose – Go beyond, “How was your weekend?” Try, “What’s been energizing you lately?”
- Praise the person, not just the output – “Thanks for the late night on the report. You’ve really gone above and beyond for the team.”
- Model authenticity – Share a personal challenge or insight. It encourages openness and mutual trust.
The Graduation Tie-In
Remember the people who helped you grow? Maybe it was a mentor who took the time to ask how you were really doing, or a boss who saw your potential before you did.
You have that opportunity now. Whether you lead one person or one hundred, your influence matters.
So this graduation season, as we celebrate the future, let’s also recommit to how we lead in the present, with clarity, compassion, and connection.
About the author
Bonnie Artman Fox, MS, LMFT works with executive leaders who want to gain self-awareness about the impact of their words and actions and up-level their interpersonal skills.
Drawing from decades as a psychiatric nurse and licensed family therapist, Bonnie brings a unique perspective to equip executive leaders with the roadmap to emotional intelligence that brings teams together.
Bonnie’s leadership Turnaround coaching program has an 82% success rate in guiding leaders to replace abrasive behavior with tact, empathy, and consideration of others. The end result is a happy, healthy, and profitable workplace…sooner vs. later.