18 October 2024

Beyond productivity: why workplace collaboration could be better for health than quitting smoking

In today's fast-paced, digital workplace, collaboration is no longer just a strategy for productivity—it has become a crucial element of employee well-being. Research shows that working collaboratively in an office not only boosts efficiency but also has significant mental and physical health benefits. Whether through team projects or structured meetings, the collective power of people working together fosters trust, reduces stress, and even contributes to longer, healthier lives.

The impact of collaboration on health and well-being

Humans are inherently social, and regular, meaningful interactions are vital to our mental health. Research shows that strong social support in the workplace can lead to significantly better health outcomes. In fact, studies indicate that individuals with stronger social relationships have a 50% increased likelihood of survival compared to those with weaker ties (Julianne Holt Lunstad)​. By collaborating effectively, employees not only enhance productivity but also benefit from reduced stress and improved overall well-being. 

Social ties and longevity

Strong social relationships, both personal and professional, have been shown to reduce the risk of early death by as much as 50%—a health benefit comparable to quitting smoking ​(Longevity LIVE). 

For those who may find direct social interaction challenging, technology that enables remote participation in meetings and structured team activities provides an alternative way to foster strong professional relationships, ensuring they still experience the health benefits of collaboration.

While many employees benefit from spontaneous face-to-face interactions, it’s important to recognise that some employees, including neurodivergent individuals, may find such interactions overwhelming.

Here, technology plays a crucial role by allowing for more structured collaboration through scheduled meetings and remote participation, enabling everyone to contribute without unnecessary stress ​(Oxford Academic). Providing neurodivergent employees with tools that allow for scheduled, structured participation further helps in reducing stress and contributing to overall physical health.

Building social capital through workplace collaboration

Collaboration builds social capital, a network of relationships that supports and strengthens employees. Strong social capital is linked to reduced stress, greater job satisfaction, and better overall well-being​ (Nutrition Response Testing). While some employees thrive in impromptu social situations, others, particularly neurodivergent individuals, may prefer a more predictable environment.

Technology can help create such an environment by providing scheduled meetings and opportunities for remote participation. Tools like ScreenBeam and Loop24 allow employees to join team meetings in a structured way, without the unpredictability of face-to-face interactions or spontaneous chats. This inclusive approach helps ensure that all employees can benefit from team support, regardless of their working style.

The role of collective efficacy in collaboration

Collective efficacy—the shared belief that a group can achieve its goals together—is key to successful collaboration ​(Oxford Academic). When employees feel part of a cohesive, goal-oriented team, they are more motivated, experience less stress, and report higher job satisfaction. Hybrid or neurodiverse workplaces can leverage technology like ShareTheBoard and ScreenBeam to ensure employees can contribute effectively, even if working remotely. These tools foster a sense of collective efficacy by ensuring that all team members, regardless of location or interaction preference, feel valued and included.

Conclusion: Collaborative work cultures reduce the risk of early death!

Collaboration is a powerful tool for improving employee productivity, health and well-being. To maximise these benefits, it’s essential to create a collaborative culture that accommodates different working styles, including those of neurodivergent employees. Key strategies include:

• Scheduling regular team meetings both in person, and remotely, ensuring all employees can engage comfortably
• Investing in technology like ScreenBeam, Loop24, and ShareTheBoard that supports in-office and remote collaboration
• Promoting open communication with clear, structured opportunities for interaction that work for everyone

This approach not only enhances productivity but also offers significant health benefits, reducing stress, improving job satisfaction, and lowering the risk of early death by 50%, much like the health benefits of quitting smoking.