WHAT MATTERS?
Aug 23, 2023
Creating a Personal Connection to Your Business's Sense of Purpose
In today's fast-paced world, there's a silent crisis looming in the corridors of businesses across the globe: employee disengagement.
The Crisis of Employee Disengagement
The Stark Reality of Today's Work Environment
We've come to a junction where employees, more than just monetary benefits, are seeking purpose and meaning in their work. The monotonous 9-5 routines, countless meetings, and tight deadlines have overshadowed the core reason why many chose their professions in the first place. It's not just about a paycheck anymore; it's about a payoff in personal fulfillment.
How Employee Engagement Impacts Business Success
When employees are disengaged, productivity drops, morale sinks, and innovation is stifled. On the contrary, businesses with high levels of engagement report better employee retention, increased productivity, and even improved customer satisfaction.
Understanding the Importance of Mattering in Business
What Is "Mattering"?
"Mattering" is the feeling that we count, that we're valued, and that our existence and contributions make a difference in the world.
The Psychological Effects of Mattering
An employee who feels they matter to their organization experience boosted self-esteem, increased motivation, and a strong sense of belonging. They're not just working; they're making a difference.
The Three Pillars of Creating Mattering
1. Why Our Business Matters
The Collective Purpose of the Organization
First and foremost, businesses need to convey their overarching purpose. Why does the organization exist? Who benefits from its existence? By highlighting the bigger picture, employees can see beyond their cubicles.
Living Our Values Daily
It's one thing to state company values on paper and another to embody them daily. Leaders should exemplify these values, reinforcing the fact that the company is genuinely making an impact.
2. The Significance of Individual Roles
Recognizing the Value in Every Position
Every cog in the machine, every piece of the puzzle, plays an essential role. Whether it's the CEO or an entry-level associate, their role is pivotal to the company's success.
How Your Contribution Makes a Difference
Employees need to know that their daily tasks, as mundane as they might sometimes seem, contribute to the organization's larger goals. They're not just completing tasks; they're fulfilling a mission.
3. The Personal Connection to Meaningful Work
A Reflection of Self Through Work
Work isn't just work. It's a reflection of one's aspirations, skills, and values. When an employee sees that they're part of something bigger, it can be profoundly personal and motivating.
The Inner Fulfillment Derived from Purposeful Work
When we align our personal values with our professional lives, a magical thing happens. We don't just work; we thrive.
A Clarism to Remember
"People want their lives to be more meaningful. It is our role as purpose-driven leaders to give them work that is meaningful." - a Clarism
Conclusion
Embracing the Challenge and Leading with Purpose
The journey to creating mattering isn't a straightforward path. It requires reflection, commitment, and genuine leadership. But by fostering a culture where employees find purpose in their roles, businesses can unlock unprecedented levels of engagement, productivity, and success.
FAQs
- What is employee disengagement? Employee disengagement refers to workers who are not committed to their job roles, leading to decreased productivity and morale.
- Why is mattering important in business? Mattering fosters a sense of belonging and value among employees, leading to increased motivation, productivity, and loyalty.
- How can businesses make employees feel they matter? By clarifying the organization's purpose, recognizing individual contributions, and making personal connections to the work they do.
- What role do leaders play in fostering mattering? Leaders set the tone by exemplifying company values, communicating purpose, and recognizing the value of every role.
- How can I make my role feel more meaningful? By understanding the broader purpose of the business, recognizing how your tasks contribute, and aligning personal values with work.
Dave Clare
Chief Evolution Officer, Circle Leadership Global.
WEEKLY CLARISM
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