How cutting down on meetings and ‘intentional serendipity’ can improve your team’s cohesion

In the latest Ask Women and Work in The Globe and Mail, and in response to a team leader concerned about declining morale and cohesion following layoffs and a return-to-office policy, workplace expert Jennifer Moss offers several strategies rooted in understanding human behavior and fostering meaningful connection. Jennifer notes that many teams are experiencing similar struggles due to abrupt changes and loss of autonomy. When people lose freedoms they had grown used to—like remote work—they can experience subconscious emotional resistance, making them disengaged and unmotivated. Leaders should acknowledge this resistance and open up conversations about what flexibility can still exist, such as allowing employees to shape their roles to better use their strengths or engage in work they find more fulfilling.

Jennifer challenges the belief that remote work is to blame for increased loneliness, instead pointing to "time poverty"—a byproduct of excessive meetings and digital overload—as the real culprit. She cites data showing a dramatic rise in time spent in virtual meetings, which has negatively affected productivity and well-being. To counteract this, leaders should focus on building "time wealth" by cutting unnecessary meetings and creating opportunities for spontaneous social interactions, or “intentional serendipity.” These include small rituals or shared experiences, like weekly team lunches, which have been shown to improve retention and safety.

Celebrating small wins is another key strategy. Recognizing daily and weekly achievements helps build momentum, psychological safety, and visibility within the organization—important factors in improving morale and safeguarding against future layoffs. When people feel seen and valued, they are more likely to form stronger bonds with their colleagues, fostering a more cohesive and motivated team environment. Overall, Jennifer emphasizes empathetic leadership, meaningful flexibility, and intentional community-building as essential tools for restoring team spirit in today’s evolving workplace.