Recharge Your Battery at Work: 5 Ways to Stay Connected for a Better Workday

Let’s face it: whether you’re in a shop front helping customers, hitting the pavement to generate more business or working behind a desk, it can be easy to get caught up in the daily grind. But here’s the thing—work doesn’t have to be all about tasks and to-do lists. Sometimes, the best way to recharge your batteries isn’t just by taking annual leave, but by connecting with the people around you.

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Building connections with your colleagues can make your workday more fulfilling and enjoyable. Whether you're dealing with customers face-to-face or jumping from virtual meeting to virtual meeting, there are easy ways to fill your cup with connection. Here are five ways to do just that:

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1. Start with Small Talk

It might sound simple, but a quick chat about weekend plans, favorite TV shows, or just asking, "How’s it going?" can make a huge difference. It helps build those small connections that make your day feel lighter and more positive.

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Tip: If you're working in a store or on-site, take a few seconds to check in with a colleague between tasks. If you're in an office or working remotely, try starting your meetings with a minute or two of casual conversation. It helps everyone feel more connected, no matter where they are.

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2. Get Social!

Whether it’s a book club, the latest Healthwise Challenge, or a lunchtime walking group, getting together with colleagues over shared interests is a great way to bond. You don’t have to be in the office to do this—even a virtual club works! It’s a fun way to connect beyond just talking about work.

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Tip:  Jump on to Workplace and check out the options available, you'll definitely find a Run Club in a region near you! If you’re feeling adventurous, consider starting your own club. You’d be surprised how many people are looking for ways to connect! And, of course, if you're more of an ideas person but need help getting your idea off the ground, reach out to your local People and Culture Team for additional support.

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3. Reward and Recognition

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At FCTG, what gets rewarded gets done. It's in our DNA to celebrate but more importantly, it's taking the time to seek out and look for something to celebrate each and every day. Taking time to celebrate moments that matter—whether it's a big sale, a new personal best, or just making it through a tough week—can really boost energy and team morale. This doesn’t have to be a big event. It could be as simple as sharing a quick “great job” shoutout in a group chat, bringing in treats to celebrate, or organising a morning tea for everyone.

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Tip: Our customer facing teams can celebrate small wins at the end of a day, while office teams can jump on a quick call to give each other kudos. These little celebrations go a long way in creating a sense of belonging. Don't forget to share the moment on internal social media sites like Workplace so that we can all play a part in fostering a culture where reward and recognition is just something we do.

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4. Listen Up!

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We all know how easy it is to zone out, especially when things get busy. But taking the time to really listen to your colleagues can strengthen those connections. Whether you’re chatting in person, on a call, or over instant messaging, showing genuine interest in what someone has to say can create a deeper sense of trust.

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Tip: The next time a colleague shares something with you, try to focus entirely on what they’re saying. During meetings, put away your phone and avoid multitasking. By being present, you’re showing respect and building trust with your teammates, which ultimately improves collaboration.

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5. Take Breaks Together

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Breaks aren’t just about stepping away from your work; they’re also a great time to connect with your teammates. If you're in the office, grab a coffee with a colleague. If you’re in a customer facing role, take a few minutes to catch up with your team during a quiet moment. And if you’re remote, try scheduling a virtual coffee chat or even a “walking meeting" over the phone.

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Tip: Setting a regular time for breaks can help make these connections more consistent. Even if it’s just once a week at a WBM or AM Planner, having that time to catch up can make a huge difference.

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Why Connection Matters for Your Well-being

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At the end of the day, staying connected at work isn’t just a “nice-to-have”—it’s something that can make a real difference in how you feel. Whether it’s a quick chat, celebrating a win, or taking a break together, these little moments of connection can help you feel more energized, valued, and ready to take on the day.

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So, next time you’re feeling a bit drained, don’t just power through. Reach out, chat with a colleague, or join that club you’ve been eyeing. Sometimes, all it takes is a small moment of connection to recharge your day—no matter where you’re working from.