Corporate priorities have historically favored profits over people, with decisions that benefit their bottom line. In chasing short-term goals, they cut costs, adopt the latest technology and streamline operations. But often overlook one crucial factor – employee wellbeing. As new generations enter the workforce, their expectations are changing. Employees today ask tough questions and seek more than contractual fulfillment. They value purpose over policies, work-life balance over drudgery, growth over loyalty, and well-being above all else. And as HR leaders, it’s up to us to create a culture that attracts and retains top talent. There’s enough evidence that a happy employee improves productivity and thereby profitability considerably. Only 21% of employees fall in the engaged category worldwide meaning – the potential to improve engagement and output is significant. But for this to happen organizations must adopt an approach that taps into employee emotions and feelings as a strategic lever rather than as a distant outcome of some elements of culture. While many companies do prioritize employee wellbeing, they’re mostly reactive measures involving counselors, fitness classes, and support after an issue has happened. It’s time to go proactive – put people first – because a holistic human-first approach is the future of work.
Let’s start with the basics – What is a human-first approach?
It’s exactly what it sounds like – putting people at the center of everything you do, prioritizing their well-being, happiness, and growth to effortlessly create an environment that supports their needs and aspirations. Acknowledging that work is only one part of their lives. And that their mental health, physical health, families, and personal goals all matter just as much.
Now, I know what you’re thinking – Sure, sounds nice to talk about, but why should I care about this touchy-feely stuff when I’ve got a bottom line to worry about? The answer is simple: because People Matter. They are the heart and soul that drive organizational success. That leads us to- What does a human-first organization even look like?
Does your organization feel like a soulless machine?
Picture this – At a software development company, Sarah, an otherwise top performer, is struggling with work and missing deadlines. When questioned by her manager, she reveals she’s going through a difficult divorce. However, he dismisses her personal struggles, telling her to “leave her personal life at the door” and focus on her job. No empathy. No support. Feeling undervalued and demotivated she becomes disengaged, and eventually leaves the company, taking her skills and experience with her.
The same situation, and the same people, but let’s see how it could turn out differently.
When Sarah’s manager notices her declining productivity, he schedules a meeting. He listens attentively to her personal problems and encourages her to use the company’s employee assistance program for free counseling and support. They work together to create a flexible work plan that provides the necessary support for Sarah to get through this difficult time. She feels valued and supported, is more loyal, and can bring her whole self to work, eventually getting back to her normal level of productivity.
For the employees, it means:
- Greater flexibility and autonomy
- Investment in employee growth and development
- Listening to employee feedback
- Culture of trust and transparency
- Prioritizing well-being – Recognizing that mental and physical health are key factors in employee performance and satisfaction, companies that prioritize well-being can create a healthier, happier workforce.
For the organization, it translates into:
- Enriched employee experience, resulting in increased productivity, creativity, loyalty, and retention.
- Improved customer service, as employees who feel valued are more likely to go above and beyond.
- Enhanced credibility with customers, investors, and potential hires.
- Cohesive teams that work together seamlessly and achieve great things.
Ultimately, a human-first approach is important because it is the right thing to do.
Reimagining the employee experience – why it’s important now?
The blurring boundaries between work and life have necessitated that we reimagine employee experience through the lens of a human-first approach. As burnout and mental health issues continue to rise, prioritizing employee well-being is key to attracting and keeping top talent. Connection and support for remote team members are more critical than ever. And guess what? Consumers and employees prefer companies that prioritize a human-first approach.
And let me tell you – this is not just a trendy buzzword but a proven strategy. There are many real-world examples of companies, small and big, that walk the talk. Because it’s not just about ping pong tables and free snacks or other superficial perks, it’s about building a culture of empathy, respect, trust, and transparency. Again, it’s simply about doing the right thing!
If you want to know how the role of women is evolving in human-first workplaces – read this – Diversity, Women, and a Human-first workplace.
Architecting a human-first strategy with the HEART Framework
A holistic strategy would involve doing a Human-First Audit to surface gaps, address these gaps with Human-First Processes, and Human-First Policies which can then be measured using Human-First metrics.
We also need to create Human-First work Models where work is more purposeful, where there is more freedom and flexibility, and where learning and challenges are consciously created.
Along with these, critically we need to improve individual, team, and leadership behaviors to support Human-First.
Finally, run Human First Change Programs that will result in a culture overhaul setting up organizations for a robust Human-First-based future.
Now that you’re convinced of the undeniable benefits and practicality of adopting a human-first approach here’s a powerful framework that you can use.
HEART FRAMEWORK:
H is for Happiness: It’s Time to Be Happy!
Happiness first! Create a culture that values and prioritizes well-being, work-life balance, healthy habits, and offers flexible work arrangements and wellness programs that support physical and mental wellness.
Because, Happiness@Work is no longer a luxury and matters more than ever for business success.
E is for Empathy: Let’s Walk a Mile in Each Other’s Shoes
Foster a culture of empathy and understanding, supporting each other through challenges and difficult times.
A is for Authenticity: Let’s Keep It Real
Create an environment where employees feel comfortable being themselves, expressing their true thoughts and feelings, pursuing their passions, and bringing their Whole Selves to work.
R is for Resilience: Let’s Bounce Back Stronger
Provide resources and training to help employees develop the skills to bounce back from setbacks, cope with stress and uncertainty, and thrive in challenging situations.
T is for Teamwork: Let’s Work Together
Foster a sense of connection and community that encourages collaboration, teamwork, and mutual support, recognizing that a sense of belonging is essential to happiness and well-being.
And when you implement this framework, you’ll see how effortlessly you can create a positive work environment, where employees feel valued and supported.
Challenges and misconceptions
Yes, there will be challenges with balancing the needs of employees and customers with the needs of the business – find a balance. There will be resistance from employees or leadership – with time and effort, you can create a shift in mindset.
A common misconception is it’s too expensive or impractical but many companies have successfully implemented it and have witnessed better business outcomes in the long run. A human-first approach doesn’t mean putting people above profits at all times – it’s about finding a balance and prioritizing people where possible.
If you want to level-up your leadership game – prioritization is the critical leadership tool you need.
The workplace of tomorrow starts with a human-first approach today
Well, it’s time to wake up to the fact that employees are more than just a number on a spreadsheet.
From treating employees like expendable resources to providing valuable resources to humanize the future of work, we’ve come a long way. But let’s be real, we’ve still got a long way to go before we can truly say we’ve cracked the code of creating a work environment that prioritizes employee happiness and well-being.
Your employees are more than just cogs in the wheel of your business machine. A real people-first culture means a total attitude shift, from the way you behave to the actions you take. It’s a constant process of assessment and improvement, not just some trending terminology to have on your company website. Your team is vital to your success, so make sure they know it! Let them know their hard work is truly making a difference.
Are you ready to take your organization to the next level with a people-first approach?
As a seasoned HR and Happiness@Work Expert, I bring a wealth of proven frameworks and solutions to help you create a culture that values and prioritizes the well-being of your employees.
Connect with me on LinkedIn and let’s start the journey to success together.
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Together, let’s create a happier, more successful world – one step at a time!