Have you ever noticed that some connections just click — no effort, no awkwardness, just instant ease? Here's how to make that happen more often...

When we meet someone and feel an instant connection, we often attribute it to
our similarities. But according to behavioral scientists, Dr. Maya Rossignac-
Milon and Dr. Erica Boothby, research shows that many of the strongest bonds come less from existing similarity and more from riffing playfully. In these moments, people create a little world that belongs just to them, a process we call “building a shared reality.”

Collaborative riffs are surprisingly central to our mental well-being, say the
authors. They’re the glue that binds us, adds pizazz to our lives and gives us a
sense of feeling understood. Sadly, our culture’s conversational rituals revolve
not around playful co-creation but around exchanging formalities. For example,
the small talk classic: “How was your weekend?” mandates you reply succinctly
and volley the question back. The conversation proceeds predictably, and
although both parties walk away with some trivial information, they remain worlds apart.

Although we think having such conversations is playing it safe, they result in
disconnection. Instead, if these people strayed from the script and riffed off each other, they might begin to feel that buzz of being in sync. “How was your
weekend?” “Good, but I spent way too much time watching parakeets dancing on TikTok.” “Whoa, like … in rhythm?” “Yes! This one guy was the Fred Astaire of
parakeets.”

The authors’ research shows that this sort of riffing pays off. But don’t worry,
riffing doesn’t require being naturally witty. It just means embracing spontaneity and, like any conversational skill, it takes practice.

Can you recall an initial conversation that sparked a deep friendship? What effect did it have on you? To join the conversation, click on "comments" below.

Learn more about creating a habit around masterful communication with
our online learning courses awarded International Gold for Best Hybrid
Learning of 2022.

Hybrid work isn’t just a location shift — it’s a mindset shift. The most successful leaders are the ones who set clear expectations, build connection intentionally, and make communication a daily habit.

Hybrid work is becoming more and more of a norm. And the old playbook of managing employees may not work anymore. The Harvard Business Review offers a series of tips to address the new paradigm.

1. Start with the facts, not feelings: Check the numbers: Are meetings dragging on? Are emails piling up unanswered? Let the data show you what’s really happening.
2. Set rules everyone can live by: Decide when people need to be “on” and what counts as urgent — then stick to it so no one’s guessing!
3. Rethink what “good performance” means: It’s not just about output. Reward quick responses, teamwork, and helping others grow.
4. Make the path to promotion crystal clear: Use 360‑degree feedback to spot leadership potential and show people how to get there.
5. Create “all‑in” days: Pick regular days when everyone’s in the office together to build energy and connection.
6. Build relationships on purpose: Onboard in groups, match people with mentors, and make introductions across teams.
7. Treat communication like a core job: Managers should actively connect people, share updates, and keep the information flowing.

Are you working in hybrid mode, and what tips can you offer? To join the conversation, click on "comments" below.

Learn more about creating a habit around masterful communication with our online learning courses awarded International Gold for Best Hybrid Learning of 2022.