A recent study looked at what happens inside companies when they engage with social media platforms.

It might not be the kind of research that makes headlines, but if you want more recognition at work or you’re a leader encouraging team input, it’s well worth reading.

Researchers tracked 99 companies and how communication changed after they adopted social media tools.


They expected more chatter. Instead, they found more connection.

Suddenly, the relationships inside these companies improved. And so did collaborative and creative thinking – a vital ingredient for growth and innovation.

After the introduction of social media tools:

• More people talked across departments
  
  
• There was an increase in junior employees communicating with senior leaders
  
  
• Better connections were made throughout companies

New information and insights surfaced from brand new places too.

Not just from the big office, that you have to knock twice on to enter. Views and perspectives came from people emboldened by sharing a thought in a thread, or adding a comment to someone else’s.

When managed effectively, social media can reset relationships, and offer new opportunities for anyone willing to take part – not just people with fancy titles.

If you’ve ever felt like your work goes unnoticed, that you’re tucked away in a corner no one sees, social media could well turn things around inside your company.

Because being seen leads to being known. And being known can change everything.