Discover how empowering your employees can elevate your business to new heights.
In today’s evolving business landscape, the traditional ways of company management are being challenged and redefined. One of the most transformative concepts that has gained momentum is an emphasis on employee-first culture. This idea places the well-being, growth, and satisfaction of employees at the core of an organizational strategy. An employee-first approach isn’t just about making the workplace more enjoyable; it’s a strategic move that can revitalize standards, drive innovation, enhance productivity, and ultimately lead to a more successful company.
But what does an employee-first culture truly entail, and why is it becoming increasingly essential in modern business practices?
Chief People Officer of The Arc Eastern Connecticut and guest speaker for the Chamber’s Human Resource Council, Denisse Mateo, shares her insight.
“Ultimately, it is the role of leaders and managers to make employees feel valued,” Mateo states.
Adopting an employee-first strategy can not only improve people’s health but boost company morale and instill positive behaviors and enhanced loyalty, leading to greater retention.
Here are 6 ways your organization can put its employees first:
- Host Company Outings or Social Events (weekly, monthly, quarterly; it can be flexible!)
- Provide Resources (such as access to wellness classes and professional development)
- Maintain Equal Staff Treatment (a sometimes-forgotten practice that should be upheld)
- Offer Incentives (like awards, employee appreciation breakfasts/lunches, bonuses)
- Encourage Peer-to-Peer Recognition (to help bridge any gaps between departments)
- Utilize Email Shout-Outs (to streamline company-wide communication)
In addition to these gestures, being open to feedback is beneficial to an employee-first culture.
Leaders should encourage staff to voice their ideas and concerns in order to foster a thriving work environment.
“If your team runs across problems, they need to feel confident that they can express them to you without their competence being questioned,” notes Mateo.
Employees want to see that their bosses are leaders and mentors, not dictators. Leaders who invest time in their employees are investing in the success of their company.
Success for a company climate through its people can look like, “…74% less stress, 106% more energy at work, 50% higher productivity, 13% fewer sick days, 76% more engagement, 29% more satisfaction with their lives, and 40% less burnout,” Mateo shares from a reliable source.
So, whether you’re a President or a new hire, we encourage you to take a page out of Mateo’s book and shift the way you think about your role and the connection you have not only to your clients, fellow business community, and the public, but your fellow staff.
Championing an employee-first approach can lead to significant benefits and is one of the greatest ROIs a company can have.