Building Organisational Communities in the New World of Work

Abstract

Tonja Blom

Purpose –This paper investigates elements of organisational community building, the benefits thereof and the realities of neglecting this human need in the new world of work.

Design/Methodology/approach – The methodology is based on a literature review and a constructivist approach to case study research to investigate how existing theories and elements apply to organisational community building.

Findings - The research reveals three results. First, the need for an importance of organisational community building as mitigation within the new world of work. Second, where employees are permitted to express themselves in a non- judgemental and safe space, isolation can be averted. Third, fear of expression and/or an inability to express due to no appropriate platform will likely result in increased isolation, loneliness, burnout with resultant decreased mental health, performance and engagement.

Research Limitations – A single case was examined, therefore generalisation across different contexts could be limited. The case shows relationships and possibilities.

Originality/Value – These findings contribute to the clarification of the importance of organisational community building, which has several implications.

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