I agree with Dr. Simmerman’s point engagement in the workplace is key to success. I find it increasingly ironic certain employers neglect their employees despite research frequently showing engaged employees allow for more flexible, competitive organizations.
Three of the most innovative organizations, Google, Toyota, and 3M, all share one quality: employee engagement. All of these companies work to build employee trust because trust fosters productivity and creativity. Engaged employees add intellectual capital and labour to company’s bottom lines, and in the long run, greater profit. However, part of engaging employees is proper performance management and incentivizing, so it is important to remember not all employees desire money. A few of the perks Google employees, some of the happiest in the world, receive are free haircuts and on-site doctors.
In addition, I find Dr. Simmerman’s “square wheels” analogy interesting and believe it accurately illustrates the problems poor management and an unengaged workforce can cause. I also hold the view that respect and community carry into all parts of work and life. The tight-knit culture at Zappos is a good example. In conclusion, I find Dr. Simmerman’s take on improving the workplace useful because it is simple, refreshing, and easily backed up.
In response to: Dr. Scott Simmerman: What I hope for: The Workplace
Articles:
http://www.weknownext.com/workforce/3m-in-the-company-we-trust
http://www.process-improvement-japan.com/how-to-motivate-employees.html
Image:
Maggie. “People Circle.” Drawing. ChiefLearningOfficer-Middle East.com 29 Aug. 2012. 13 Nov. 2012
<http://www.clo-me.com/?p=1770>.