Building Connection and Positive Culture: Lessons from Leadership and the Power of a Smile

I recently came across a LinkedIn post by Rory Glass, an Executive Performance Coach and Business Advisor, that really resonated with me. I always find value in Rory's insights, but this particular post struck a chord because it aligns perfectly with what we at The Smile Company aim to foster in New Zealand workplaces—strong connections and a positive, inclusive culture.

Rory shared a story about visiting a business early in the morning. As he was being helped by a team member, other employees started arriving, each greeting their colleague with a handshake, fist bump, or pat on the back. While this didn’t affect Rory’s service, it spoke volumes about their workplace culture. It was a simple, genuine reflection of a team connected and ready to take on the day together.

This reminded me of my own experiences, particularly with Rory’s father, Tony Glass, whom I worked with at Eta Foods and Bluebird Foods years ago (not giving away how long ago, but it’s been a while!). Tony gave me my first leadership role, and I learned so much from him. What stood out most was his natural ability to connect with everyone, regardless of their role. Whether on the factory floor or at the boardroom table, Tony knew everyone by name. Every morning, he would have breakfast in the cafeteria, where he’d chat and laugh with people from all parts of the business. His leadership was all about connection—making people feel seen, heard, and valued.

This kind of connection is vital for leaders who want to build a positive culture. As Rory mentioned in his post, “It’s particularly important for leaders to do this across the organisation as they go about their day, as it sets the tone for the whole environment. It’s a real red flag when leaders walk around the business in their own groups, tied up with their own importance, not acknowledging those around them.”

The message is clear: leaders must embody the culture they wish to create. If it’s not lived by the leadership, it won’t take root in the organisation. Sometimes, the idea of transforming a company’s culture can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. It’s the small, everyday actions—like acknowledging a colleague with a smile or a fist bump—that build the foundation for change.

At The Smile Company, we’re passionate about the superpower of a smile. We believe that smiles create real connection, infuse energy, and spread positivity throughout any environment. If your team could benefit from a boost in culture, cohesion, and more effective ways of working together, we invite you to join us for our Smile Workshop.

Our workshop isn’t just about fun—it’s about personal and professional growth. You’ll leave with the tools and confidence to foster meaningful connections in your team, creating an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered.

Ready to transform your team culture? Contact us to learn more about our Smile Workshop and how we can help you create a world class customer service culture.