No matter what the response is — positive or negative — don’t negate their experience or move too quickly to solving a problem. Just listen, thank them for being honest, and ask for more information before moving toward a solution.

Based on their response, explore what you can do to help them deepen those connections. Perhaps people from different departments can work on a company-wide event, a cross-division initiative, or take part in virtual discussion groups.

This question signals that you care about their development and want to help them achieve their aspirations.

To help them work better brainstorm with your colleague how you can be most helpful. Ensuring people can do their jobs well is just as important as praise and rewards.