By Glenn G. Campos

NORTHLINK: How do you maintain the strong bond of your team?

ChatGPT will chat this instantly: “Maintaining a strong team bond takes consistent effort, requires intentional actions, trust, consistent communication, and a supportive culture.”  ChatGPT will continue to share these key strategies: clear communication, shared goals, mutual trust and respect, team rituals, conflict resolution, growth opportunities, and celebrating individuality.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned through the years, in more than three decades of my professional life, it’s this: no matter how talented or driven individuals may be, a truly successful team thrives on strong bonds. And in my role, I’ve made it a priority to help build those connections — not just through words, but through consistent action.

For me, team bonding isn’t about grand gestures.

It’s about showing up, being present, and creating spaces where everyone feels heard, appreciated, and connected.

One of the most effective ways I’ve found to nurture this is through regular weekly huddles with the core team. We call it 4Dx meetings.  These are not just status updates, they’re opportunities to check in on how everyone’s doing, to align on our goals, and to remind each other that we’re in this together. It keeps our momentum going, especially during challenging weeks. Then, once a month, I extend that energy through a larger huddle with the expanded team, one-level-down included, making sure no one feels left out of the bigger picture.

Another thing I always encourage is open communication. In every meeting, I make it clear: your voice matters. Everyone has something valuable to contribute, and I want them to feel empowered to speak up, ask questions, or share their thoughts. A team that listens to one another builds trust — and trust is the foundation of any strong bond.

I also believe in the power of public recognition. Simple shoutouts — whether it’s for a job well done, a creative idea, or just someone going the extra mile — go a long way. People light up when they’re seen and appreciated. It reminds us that our efforts matter, not just to the company, but to one another.  The division’s R&R program plays a big role here.  Twice a year, we reward Tatak Nortech Award achievers to ever deserving colleagues.  The public recognition and time spent to cherish this momentous event make it more special to achievers and provide a lot of motivation and encouragement for all members of the division.   

But bonding isn’t just about work. It’s also about building relationships beyond the deadlines and deliverables. That’s why we started implementing sports Olympics-style activities, which we call TechOlympics. It sounds fun — and it is — but more importantly, it brings out camaraderie, teamwork, and even a bit of healthy competition.  Whether it’s cheering each other on in a game or just sharing laughs on the sidelines, these events help break down walls and strengthen our sense of unity.

At the end of the day, I see my role not just as someone who guides or decides, but as someone who connects. My hope is that through these small, intentional efforts, our team not only works well together, but also genuinely enjoys being together.

I asked a colleague about this solid team bonding, and this is what he pitched in: “There should be respect for each other and a strong commitment to teamwork.”

True! Because when we trust and respect each other, support each other, and have fun along the way, we don’t just hit our goals, we grow stronger as a team.