Leadership, People and Connection

“Pebbling is an act of care. Every pebble is a bid for connection.”  Adam Grant

Recently the Today show discussed and X posts by Adam Grant and others spoke to the concept of ‘pebbling’. Pebbling is a word that is used to describe the unique relationship rituals of the Gentoo penguins, a species of sub-Antarctic island penguins. While the ritual as described is about how the male penguin romances his partner, the concept has a broader application for the rest of us. The male penguin presents his potential mate with pebbles that she then uses to build a nest. 

How might this then be applicable to leaders and organizations? Research study after research study has concluded that relationships are the foundation of leadership success. (My own dissertation on Innovation and the Superintendency had as its key finding that you cannot innovate without relationships!). Pebbling is a way to reach out in small ways on a regular basis and to do it in a way that is specific to the person and our understanding of them, their interests, beliefs, hobbies etc. When leaders find ways to reach out in small ways to their team members it strengthens relationships and bonds and sends the message that the leader cares for the person as an individual. 

Another aspect to remember is that pebbling is a bid for connection. When someone sends you a meme, a story, a memory or some such small message - it can strengthen your bond, and enhance the well being of both the sender and the receiver. If you want to use pebbling to connect - be authentic, send a little something every now and then … not a boulder and not a rockslide. Small, sincere and thoughtful acts enrich relationships and lives - go ahead, brighten their day and yours!