International Labour Day – Progress for the Better

Is passion towards work over-rated in my organization? Does it really exist? These questions haunt employers in today’s modern world.

Passion must be nurtured. It is not obtained through methods of extreme pressure.  Research has proven that burnouts can lead to depression. A majority of employees aspire to make impacts for the better in their organization. Why does this process fail?

• Lack of autonomy: Micromanagement of the employees’ work can lead to the death of passion. Allot stretch goals and give them the freedom to take ownership of their work.
• Measure outcomes: Rigid and routine processes can curb the wings of aspirations in an employee. A focus on outcomes will empower the employee in your organization.
• Encourage cross-functionality: Research has proved that experiences of cross-functionality can lead to better collaboration within an organization. A network of teams is the necessity for organizations today.
• Reward innovation: Research has proved that millennials believe that they should get credit for their contribution to innovation and creativity. They form a majority of workforces today. Thus, rewards can play a key role.
• Employee feedback inculcation: ‘Leading from the back’ approach can bring positive results to your organization. Include the feedback of employees in your processes.
• Allow the risk of failure: Empower your employees by making allowance for failures. Failures can be learning experiences. ‘It is acceptable to fail but do your best always’ must be a principle in your organization.

Passion can be contagious. ‘A top down approach’ must be followed by leaders where they lead by example. Leaders can ignite and sustain a passionate workforce through the above tiny steps which can lead to ‘progress for the better’ in organizations worldwide.

Happy International Labour Day!

Sandra Sebastian