Communication is always high on the list of priorities when we get involved in projects. Equally important, is building genuine connection with the people on site as well as the leaders. Gerwyn has some reflections for this week’s project connection blog:
“When I was a teenager working as a carpenter’s labourer alongside my father, I learned something invaluable: kindness often comes in the form of a simple gesture, like a cup of tea. From age fourteen to twenty-two, I saw how a small offering — a mug of tea, served warm and with a smile — meant much more than just a drink. It was a message: You’re welcome here, your work is appreciated, and we respect you. These moments of hospitality stayed with me, shaping not just my outlook on relationships, but also my philosophy at Coron. Even today, I offer visitors a cup of tea, whether they’re clients, collaborators, or even people we’ve hired to support our team. To me, this act reflects more than politeness; it’s a genuine show of respect, trust, and openness—a small but sincere way to lay a foundation of goodwill and to serve those around me.
In Wales, tea is a social ritual that resonates across every generation and environment, whether in homes, workplaces, or community centres. It’s more than a drink; it’s a sign that you’re seen and valued, an invitation to connect and share a moment. Throughout the UK, offering tea is an understated but powerful ritual that communicates welcome, fosters trust, and softens formalities. In my career and at Coron, it symbolises qualities we hold dear: genuine connection, a drive to recognise others’ contributions, and a spirit of mutual respect. As a leader, I see this ritual as part of servant leadership itself—a humble offering that sets the tone, shows care, and encourages open communication.
Beyond the UK, other cultures have embraced tea as a meaningful act of hospitality. In Japan, the tea ceremony—or chanoyu—teaches mindfulness, respect, and appreciation. The ceremony, highly ritualised and precise, is not about the tea itself but about the connection and shared moment. In the Middle East, offering tea is a near-sacred tradition, a cultural duty that conveys honour and respect to a guest. Meanwhile, in India, chai is a cornerstone of social life, bringing people together in homes, on bustling streets, and in quiet corners.
Although the customs differ, the message is the same: this act of kindness reflects a spirit of welcome and builds trust. When we sit down over a cup of tea, we’re more likely to share freely. Often, these conversations spark ideas, reveal insights, or deepen the connection. I’ve seen how it can dissolve barriers, enabling dialogue that might not otherwise happen. Reflecting on these experiences, I’ve come to see that true leadership, especially in the field of project management, is about servant-hearted actions that uplift and support others. In every project I undertake, I aim to lead from a place of service, building relationships that last and contribute to a positive, collaborative atmosphere.”
Connection builds confidence and trust
At Coron, we see each project as a journey built on these same principles of connection and trust. Our mission is to empower people to reach peak performance, and much like the tea we serve, this empowerment starts with a simple invitation—to work together, to value one another, and to believe that even small acts can create large impacts. Our vision, too, reflects the wider purpose of lifting up individuals and teams, lending our energy to influence people and projects. We aim to influence one million people to create global impact, and that influence begins with the respect and attention we give in every interaction.
One of the most valuable aspects of offering tea, whether in business or everyday life, is the space it opens up for honest conversation. In the quiet pause of sharing tea, formal roles and titles tend to fall away, leaving room for sincerity. At Coron, we know that great projects start with open, genuine discussions, where each person feels seen and valued. By having a cuppa and a friendly conversation, we set a tone that says, we’re in this together.
More than just a nicety, these moments of connection often lead to unexpected opportunities. A single gesture of kindness or recognition can transform a meeting into a partnership, a routine job into a story of growth, or a professional relationship into a lasting friendship.
Small actions as a foundation for success
We’ve seen, time and again, how small actions can lay the groundwork for larger, more meaningful outcomes. This focus on connection and opportunity aligns with our values at Coron, as we strive to add real value to every project by building trust, empowering people, and recognising the strengths and contributions each person brings. This focus on service and humility — a golden thread of servant leadership that guides us—enables us to create sustainable results for our clients, one interaction at a time.
Our role at Coron is to facilitate, to support, and to empower, much as offering tea is about creating a safe, inclusive space for connection. By committing to these principles, we build a foundation of trust that strengthens every project we touch.
So, next time you’re able to offer tea — or any small gesture of kindness — perhaps remember that it’s about more than a drink. It’s about making someone feel welcome, valued, and part of something greater. Offering tea is a reminder of the values we hold dear: to be genuine, energetic, empathetic, and always open to others. It’s a small ritual with a large impact — a lasting symbol of kindness that can inspire others to embrace its power, one conversation at a time. If you’d like a conversation about the support we can offer, through Base Camp or Pathfinder, book a call here.