Everybody Matters summary

How would you measure the success of a company? Your first instinct might be to simply look to the number of products a company sells and the profits it generates – and, without a doubt, these are important factors. But to be truly successful, a company should always put the well-being of its employees first and foremost.

So how do you create the kind of environment that leads to happy employees?

It begins with strong leadership. But don’t think of it as strictly managerial leadership; think of it as stewardship. This means letting your employees know that you’re truly looking out for their best interests. You should move beyond simply acknowledging their productivity and actually take the time to inform them that you value their work.

You can do this by putting aside some time each week to talk to your employees face-to-face and express your gratitude for their dedication and the hard work they do.

By doing this you’re not only giving them a sense of security and fulfillment in their job. You are also literally benefitting their health. A recent poll of American workers showed that those who said they love their job spent 62 percent less on healthcare than those who hated their job.

This leadership role is similar to good parenting. Being a parent means constantly checking in with the kid, verifying they are healthy and in good spirits. An employer should do the same by regularly asking employees some simple questions:

Do they feel secure? Do they feel fulfilled? Is their life meaningful to them?

When you consider these questions yourself you will realize the degree to which you’re responsible for your employee’s happiness. After all, it’s not just a business you’re building – it’s also a home, a place that both you and your employees need to feel safe and secure in.