Some people float through their days at the office with little enthusiasm for what they do, mindlessly going through the motions of doing their jobs from one day to the next. At 5:01, chairs can be found tucked under desks with computer monitors either blacked out, or displaying login screens. Another day. Another buck.
If you know who these people are, they may not feel a sense of purpose, or they may not feel any sense of fulfillment in their jobs. That’s a problem, because they are likely very intelligent and talented employees who are seeking to fill those voids elsewhere. Some immerse themselves into volunteer work, others join groups and some exhaust themselves organizing events for worthy causes. And, they feel great doing these things, because they fulfill a variety of needs.
- The need to experience being a part of something larger than themselves
- The need to feel appreciated
- The need to be mentally challenged
- The need to enjoy being in the presence of those they work with
- The need to have a leader they can respect
- The need to believe in what they are doing
- The need to know they are helping
- The need to experience the results of their hard work
- The need to feel a strong sense of purpose
- The need to know they are making a difference
- The need to receive accolades
- The need to know they are growing personally and professionally
- The need to experience new things
- The need to collaborate with others who share similar visions and passions
- The need to have things in common with others on their team
- The need to feel proud
- The need to brag about themselves once in a while, even if it’s to themselves
- The need to form friendships and relationships for life
- The need to feel important
- The need to achieve goals
- The need to know it’s about the money, but that it’s not about the money
A good leader can certainly create a culture where these needs can be met, and as you may imagine, the results are fantastic. When you read about a company experiencing record growth year after year, even in down economies, it’s because these companies are led by people who have the skills to get the most out of their employees. And, the good news is, these skills can be taught through a strong leadership training program, such as L.E.T. If people really enjoy working for their leaders, they will consistently give one hundred percent, and at times, go beyond expectations. Compare this culture to one where people view their company as not much more than a place to get a paycheck and health insurance. Think of how this culture retains star-performers. Think of how this culture attracts top talent. Think of how this culture impacts profitability.