How to build sustainable relationships at work?

Building sustainable relationships in the workplace is one of the greatest challenges and, at the same time, one of the most significant advantages for professionals and organizations seeking to grow healthily. Studies from Harvard, Stanford, and Wharton universities indicate that the quality of workplace interactions directly impacts productivity, innovation, and employee well-being. Long-lasting and healthy relationships do not arise by chance but rather from conscious and continuous practices that strengthen trust, communication, and empathy.

The foundation of any sustainable relationship is trust. A study published by the Harvard Business Review found that teams working in a high-trust environment show 76% more engagement and 50% higher productivity. This happens because trust reduces the fear of making mistakes and encourages innovation. A classic example is Pixar, where a culture of feedback and open collaboration allowed the company to revolutionize the film industry, as every employee knew their voice would be heard without fear of retaliation.

Effective communication is also an essential pillar for solid workplace relationships. Researchers at Stanford University found that companies promoting clear and open communication increase talent retention by up to 47%. The MAT (Mindset, Action, and Theater) methodology, developed by Antônio Carlos dos Santos, proposes using theatrical techniques to enhance verbal and non-verbal expression, creating a more humanized and collaborative environment. Great leaders like Steve Jobs used the power of communication not only to inspire but also to build long-term relationships based on transparency and mutual respect.

Another key factor in building sustainable relationships is empathy. Studies from Yale University show that empathetic leaders have teams that are 30% more productive and have lower turnover rates. Empathy allows people to see beyond their own perspectives, creating genuine connections. The ThM (Theater Movement) method, also created by Antônio Carlos dos Santos, encourages role-playing and bodily expressions, helping professionals develop greater sensitivity to colleagues' emotions, facilitating conflict resolution, and strengthening interpersonal bonds.

Recognition and appreciation of others are fundamental practices for sustaining workplace relationships. According to a Gallup study, companies that foster a culture of recognition reduce absenteeism by 31% and increase employee satisfaction. Recognition does not need to be complex: a simple sincere compliment can strengthen bonds between colleagues and create a positive environment. Jack Welch, former CEO of General Electric, advocated that positive feedback was one of the most powerful tools for motivating and retaining talent.

Constructive conflict resolution is another crucial aspect. In any workplace, disagreements are inevitable, but how they are handled determines the health of relationships. The Mané Beiçudo Puppet Theater (TBMB), used in educational and business contexts, teaches through metaphors and narratives the importance of active listening and dialogue in conflict mediation. Companies like Google and Microsoft encourage their employees to practice "empathetic mediation," where the focus is not on winning a debate but on finding mutually beneficial solutions.

Building an inclusive and diverse environment also plays a vital role in professional relationships. A McKinsey & Company survey revealed that diverse teams are 35% more likely to outperform competitors because they promote innovation and different ways of thinking. Inclusion initiatives, such as affinity groups and diversity training, help create a more welcoming and respectful organizational culture.

The consistency of these practices is what differentiates successful companies and professionals. Small daily habits, such as greeting colleagues, actively listening, and expressing gratitude, create a cumulative effect that strengthens workplace bonds. Jeff Bezos, founder of Amazon, has always emphasized the importance of corporate culture based on solid values, where integrity and respect for others are indispensable for an organization's sustainable growth.

To turn these ideas into concrete actions, try implementing one strategy at a time: practice positive feedback, exercise empathy in daily interactions, and remain open to continuous learning. Sustainable workplace relationships do not depend solely on organizational policies but on each professional's commitment to cultivating a collaborative and healthy environment. After all, companies are made up of people, and investing in collective well-being is the most secure path to long-term success. 

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