When we talk about the relationship between employers and employees, there is a focus on policy.
Retirement plans, benefits, salary, hours, location where work is done, etc.
There is less conversation about people.
People are the ones making the decisions and doing the work.
The role of CEO or front-line worker are all people bringing their human self to the role.
I liked this quote from the Jabian Journal:
“People are the heart and consciousness and the living soul of every organization.
They are the reason an enterprise exists.
People have skills, capabilities, desires, potential, limits, moods, and yes, feelings.
People do the work.
They execute processes and utilize technology.
Without them, nothing can happen.”
My Perspective
I believe this quote applies to every person in the organization.
An employee can feel frustrated if they have a lack of autonomy and decision-making.
An executive can feel hurt and sad from feedback on an employee survey.
Most people are coming to work to move the business forward, not intentionally hurt others.
The tricky part is the delicate balance.
Ensuring the business progresses without causing harm to the people in the organization.
When companies go through tough moments, an “us vs. them” culture emerges.
“Leadership” vs. “Employees”.
“Business” vs. “Resources”.
The idea of people on either side of the equation disappears.
With meaty issues on the horizon, it’s time to work people back into the conversations.
Finding ways for people at all levels to come together to design programs.
Making sure those programs work for the business…..and all the people.
Your Turn
Have you seen the divides in organizations?
What topics tend to drive the most “us vs. them” culture?
How could organizations focus on programs with benefits to both the business and the people?