Research by Gallup has found that 70% of the variance in team engagement can be attributed to a manager, making it clear that connection is a critical component of leadership.

When we connect, people feel respected, appreciated, and invested in, as their preferences and points of view are being valued. That’s why connection builds engagement, which subsequently improves the bottom line.

All interpersonal relationships can be improved. Check out these 14 phrases by Dr Dupe Burgess to build connection and ways to implement them.

1. "I'd love to hear your thoughts on this?

• Invites diverse perspectives and true inclusion
• Ask this before presentations to enage your team

2. " I noticed your great work yesterday"

• Recognises effort; builds loyalty and morale
• Mentions outstanding work to affirm value and dedication

3. "What can I take off your plate?"

• Reduces stress and demonstartes empathy
• Offer this during high workloads or tight deadlines

4. " I admire the way you handles that. "

• Acknowledges strengths, and gives positive reinforcement
• Offer this after observing an interaction or a key skill in actiom

5. “Shall we brainstorm together?”

• Opens up the collaboration amongst the team and brings creativity
• Use during projects and to promote ideas sharing

6. “How can I help you reach your goals?

• Shows your invested in others 
• Ask in 1:1 meetings to align where support is needed

7. “How do you prefer to communicate?”

• Tailored communication shows respect for individuals, and strengthens understanding
• Ask this early on to establish preferences

8. “Let’s work together to find a solution.”

• Reinforces team work and problem solving
• Say this in challenging situations to build unity in the team 

9. “Take the lead here, I trust your skill.

• Demonstrates trust and nurtures ownership
• Assign ownership to others to empower and motivate them

10.” Your insights could shape this project.”

• Recognises value and expertise, strengthens mutual respect
• Offer this during complex tasks, that need deep or unique insights

11. “Let’s discuss the concerns you have.”

• Opens up transparency and builds trust
• Use before major decisions to ensure there is alignment

12. “I made a mistake; I want to make it up.”

• Shows accountability and humility, and builds trust
• Address mistakes directly and show transparency and integrity

13. “Your efforts made a big difference.”

• Highlights impact, inspiring continuous effort
•  Express this after a project or achievement to affirm their contribution

14. “Thanks for being honest and direct.”

• Validates contribution and people’s contribution, and encourages honesty and openness
• Use this after using constructive feedback 

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