See a photo of Andree, her bio, Part 1 of this Q&A, and Part 2.

Q&A with Andrée Iffrig, Question 4:

Q: In your article, Narrating Stories in Organizations, you assert that such digital activities as email, texting, and social networking sites have contributed to an “impoverished social environment.” Do you feel there is any possibility that some of these non-face-to-face communications can be harnessed for the kinds of storytelling activities you espouse — or are you convinced that the benefits you describe can accrue only from face-to-face storytelling?

A: This is a tricky question! Advocates of social networking will insist that it enhances relationship building. As someone concerned with employee wellbeing, I beg to differ. Human beings need Real Connections in addition to digital ones, and if you create a problem or misunderstanding with an email or other digital technology, you cannot solve it with more of the same; you absolutely have to phone the other party or meet.

I sit on the program committee for Canada’s annual conference on Health, Work and Wellness. The statistics from the conference are worrisome: many professionals feel isolated; they are incredibly stressed at work; their lives are filled with busyness but there are few opportunities to de-stress.

At the stage they become cynical or depressed, creating connections with others who may be struggling becomes paramount. To revive the heart of work requires subtle techniques that help people rise above their current perspective. Storytelling conducted in peer settings can help people.