In an earlier posting, we explored the importance of face-to-face communication, drawing from Donald Cohen and Laurence Pusak’s bookIn Good Company: How Social Capital Makes Organizations Work. We want to reemphasize that thought.

In an article published on the consulting organization Qm2’s website, organization principal Will Phillips suggests that the tangible mechanisms which foster social capital are based on physical proximity. He posits that smaller teams—such as string quartets—seem to build social capital spontaneously and suggests that the challenge for larger organizations, such as symphonies, is to consciously use the examples from smaller teams.

Phillips says, "Social capital is nurtured by having workspace that encourages face-to-face interaction. Think of Starbucks–good coffee, snacks, wonderfully soft, comfortable chairs. . . . Add frequent, informal lunches–maybe even breakfasts–which attract people from different levels and different functions to engage in relaxed, work-focused conversations. The desired result? No one is a stranger."

In numerous essays published in Harmony, the Institute has encouraged symphony orchestra organization participants to consider ways to overcome the separation of workspaces, which is very common. And we would do so again.

It is very easy to let day-to-day urgencies drive the thought of face-to-face communication aside. It is easy to send an e-mail or fax. Recognizing that, in many orchestras, office space and rehearsal space may be in entirely separate locations, suggests that leaders from all constituencies make an overt commitment to "soft" activities such as socializing.

By putting face-to-face communication on the action agenda, symphony orchestra organizations can nurture the development of open communication and mutual respect.

Share What Works
Has your organization developed successful ways to overcome physical separation and encourage face-to-face communication? If so, we encourage you to share your thoughts with us. Send your ideas to publications@soi.org. and we will spread the good news.

"Social Capital: The Soft Technology that Enables You to Create Value at Work" by Will Phillips