Humans first : Employees second
A common mistake of below the line cultures is where people are viewed as ‘commodities’ or ‘resources’ rather than human individuals. Unsurprisingly these workplaces find that motivation and engagement is low.
A workplace that places immense value on its most important asset (its employees) will be a thriving ecosystem. It will be strength-based, brain-friendly and will promote evidence-based care for the staff. Awareness of mental health, unconscious bias and diversity all provide an environment where employees feel psychologically safe and valued.
A few years ago, in Vietnam, I spotted a sign over the staff area that read Happy Staff, Happy Customers and it certainly was the vibe of the place. The staff members were friendly and helpful; they were absolutely brimming with positivity and warmth. We certainly felt the staff members were genuinely loved and cared for by the business owners.
Considering employees beyond their roles is a highly protective factor. Appreciating employees and their wellbeing ensures organisational expectations are not a barrier for them in having a fulfilling personal life. Asking an employee about their weekend, in a non-intrusive way and truly taking the time to listen and engage with the response is a highly valuable way to build connections.
Working from home during COVID-19 has given employees greater connection with and insight into the personal lives of their colleagues. In a helpful way, it has shattered the professional persona we may have thought was necessary to bring to work to bolster our credibility. The mask many of us believed we needed takes a lot of energy to maintain. Brené Brown’s work is a continual reminder of the more helpful approach to unmask and to be more real and authentic: Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations.Whole Hearts.
How do you ensure that you go beyond role to role and relate to your colleagues as human to human?
We don’t have to be best friends with our colleagues, but acknowledging and recognising their humanity goes a long way to build trust, engagement and genuine connection.
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