By Sherif Attar
In a world of ever-changing ambiguity and uncertainty, executives have to face two challenges: excellent performance and people development. Where many managers think those endeavours are “competing”, this author believes they are “completing”. GET DOWN TO BUSINESS argues.
Businesses that shifted to having a people-first focus are reaping the benefits. Now what do you need to consider if you want to do the same?
It’s a belief that is discussed in depth by entrepreneur Dale Partridge in his 2015 book People over Profit. “Generosity is less like an arrow and more like a boomerang; it comes back to you,” he advises.
Hospitality entrepreneur Michel Falcon doubled down on the message in 2018, sharing lessons he had learned building his own successful restaurant portfolio in his book People-First Culture, which centred around core values of celebration, ownership, foresight, integrity and humility.
“The economics of my business are very important, but building relationships with my employees, my customers and the community matters more to me,” he asserts.
Both books quickly became best-sellers. And while companies like Intrepid Travel and Marriott International have been prioritising their people since the get-go, others have since climbed on board.
Put Your People First Key points:
Share your ‘Why’
Make sure your team understands your vision and their role. The shared sense of purpose will inspire and motivate them, make them feel valued, helping to drive your business forward.
We have a duty to make decisions that support people, planet and partners – including staff. Our people know they are part of a purpose-driven team who come to work to have a positive impact on the world, while having enriching and exciting career opportunities.
Be an inspiring leader
Taking the time to get to know your team and engaging with them will help to draw out their strengths. They’ll want to come on the journey with you, rather than feel like it’s their duty.
“Leaders who adopt a people-first approach, leading with compassion and trust, will form the bedrock upon which a resilient, productive and sustainable organisation can be built. When leaders lead without a people-first approach, they risk cultivating a fear-based culture – and while this type of environment may seem profitable at first, it’s unlikely to be sustainable in the long-term.
Transparency
Just as transparency with customers yields great benefits, so too does total honesty with employees. They’ll see you as trustworthy and reliable, which has a huge impact on company culture. Not only does it help improve morale, but it also helps to lower stress, a major concern during the pandemic, while also boosting performance.
Positive environment
Create an environment where people feel supported, valued and heard to bring out the best in them. Intrepid discovered autonomy and flexibility were key. It then introduced flexible working arrangements, including the option of a four-day work week and a work-from-anywhere policy.
Create strong psychological safety, where staff feel empowered to take risks, ask questions and innovate without fear of failure. Organisations are likely to see enhanced morale, motivation, discretionary effort and job satisfaction among staff.
Community focus
Give both your business and your team a sense of purpose by positively impacting the communities in which you operate.
According to a recent study, 63 per cent of millennials believe the primary purpose of businesses should be “improving society” instead of “generating profit”. Meanwhile, 94 per cent of millennials want to use their skills to benefit a cause and 57 per cent wish that there were more company-wide service days.
Consistency
Ensure that your people-first approach is reflected in everything you do – from policies and initiatives to communications and partnerships.
In particular, anonymous employee surveys that measure leadership style can help identify issues or areas for improvement, and these can be complemented by regular check-ins between managers and team members. Regular one-on-one meetings are valuable not only to discuss work-related matters but also, importantly, to build connections and establish trust.
For questions or suggestions, please send your comments.
Sherif Attar, an independent management consultant/trainer and organisation development authority, delivers seminars in the US, Europe, Middle East and the Far East.
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