Workplace people are at risk of obsessing about productivity. The idea of what is or is not effective and even the notion of wellbeing, has almost been done to death. We overthink stuff. As Neil Ushermight say, there are a few bandwagons people are leaping on a little too eagerly. So, let’s keep it simple. Yes, we need a ‘space’ to work in (or just do stuff), but mostly we need a reason for using it in the first place. One thing most people agree on – even the media and flinty-eyed consultants – is that we need a motivation, a reason to do the things asked of us and a belief or intrinsic connection to do those ‘things’ well.
This connection is not just about having a passion for your job, the organisation you work for, or the people around you. It is about having a connection with the brand. Before you begin rolling your eyes, we must be careful not to slip into business jargon and not over complicate things. Passion is important, but what really counts is giving your employees a reason to behave in a certain manner. For example, great customer service – and therefore productivity and effectiveness – is about motivation: having a reason why.
Many of the young high growth organisations emerging now believe it’s very important for employees to understand the purpose and vision of the organisation, particularly when they are starting out. That purpose and vision stems from the brand. It’s a reflection of our social democratic society. There’s an emphasis on ‘engagement’.
Hence why Stewart Redpath, a director at Liminal Marketing, once claimed he “can ’smell’ the culture of an organisation within three minutes of entering their offices.” Bold talk, but what he says makes sense. People everywhere want to feel valued, to enjoy work. We all (yes, even the most cynical) crave professional satisfaction and fun, and most of us want to feel secure in teams and be part of a ‘family’.