Making Work Human Book Summary - Making Work Human Book explained in key points
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Making Work Human summary

Eric Mosley Derek Irvine

How Human-Centered Companies are Changing the Future of Work and the World

4.4 (59 ratings)
22 mins

Brief summary

Making Work Human by Eric Mosley and Derek Irvine explores the importance of creating a human-centered workplace culture. It offers actionable insights for leaders to foster positive relationships, increase employee engagement, and drive business success.

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    Making Work Human
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    The future of work is human.

    All humans have the right to work in jobs that they choose. That’s what the Universal Declaration of Human Rights proclaimed back in 1948. But for the authors and other people who work for Workhuman, this is no longer enough.

    They believe that in our technologically advanced present, humans have the right to work in jobs that they choose, and that also meet their essential needs. These include the need for social connection, psychological safety, growth, and meaning.

    Workhuman has made it its mission to ensure that modern workplaces represent these core human values. Why? Well, the first reason is that making people happier in their work is simply the right thing to do. The second reason is that human workplaces also happen to be great for business.

    The key message here is: The future of work is human.

    Rapidly evolving technologies such as the internet and artificial intelligence have transformed the way we work – and they show no signs of slowing down any time soon. This ever-changing tech environment has created a market that experts sometimes describe with the military term VUCA: volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous.

    In order to stay competitive in a VUCA market, businesses need to adapt and evolve constantly, too. This means that they need to attract and retain employees who are willing to do the same. Since employees today are more socially conscious, informed, and mobile than ever, keeping them inspired and engaged isn’t an easy task.

    The best thing businesses can do is create a workplace where employees feel recognized, valued, and appreciated as full human beings. The human workplace is built around positive values such as community, connectedness, and belonging, and unites a diverse set of people around a shared mission. Instead of trying to force peak performances out of employees, it inspires them to give their peak performance.

    Indeed, comprehensive business research over the last three decades shows that employees in human workplaces perform better, are more engaged with their work, and stick around longer. This increases profits, boosts business growth, and saves costs in the long run.

    Companies like Costco, Trader Joe’s, and Toyota have already recognized the power of positive human values in the workplace, and are designing their business structures accordingly – with great success. These blinks will show you how your business can do the same.

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    What is Making Work Human about?

    Making Work Human (2020) is a roadmap for building the workplace of the future based on positive human values such as community, connection, and belonging. Drawing on a vast amount of data and using deep analytics, the pioneers of social recognition company Workhuman explain how a work culture of gratitude makes people happier and healthier while boosting productivity and performance.

    Making Work Human Review

    Making Work Human (2023) explores the importance of creating a more human-centered workplace and reveals strategies for enhancing employee engagement and satisfaction. Here's what sets this book apart:

    • With its emphasis on practical implementation, the book provides actionable insights that can be easily applied in any work environment, fostering positive change.
    • Backed by research and case studies, it offers a compelling argument for making work more human, addressing the key challenges faced by organizations today.
    • Through its compelling stories and examples, the book brings the concepts to life, making it an engaging and enlightening read that resonates with readers.

    Best quote from Making Work Human

    People are your biggest investment, not your biggest cost.

    —Eric Mosley and Derek Irvine
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    Who should read Making Work Human?

    • HR professionals interested in new management approaches
    • Business owners looking to boost productivity and innovation in their companies
    • Those curious about the future of work

    About the Author

    Eric Mosley is the cofounder and CEO of Workhuman, a multinational company providing software solutions for performance management based on social recognition.

    Derek Irvine is the Senior Vice President of Workhuman and heads the consulting and analytics division of the company. The two previously collaborated on The Power of Thanks.

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    Making Work Human FAQs 

    What is the main message of Making Work Human?

    The main message of Making Work Human is that creating a more human-centered workplace leads to happier employees and better business outcomes.

    How long does it take to read Making Work Human?

    The estimated reading time for Making Work Human is several hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.

    Is Making Work Human a good book? Is it worth reading?

    Making Work Human is worth reading as it provides valuable insights on fostering a human-centric work environment for better employee satisfaction and success.

    Who is the author of Making Work Human?

    The authors of Making Work Human are Eric Mosley and Derek Irvine.

    What to read after Making Work Human?

    If you're wondering what to read next after Making Work Human, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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    • Resilient by Rick Hanson with Forrest Hanson
    • The Six Pillars of Self-Esteem by Nathaniel Branden
    • The Mindful Way Through Depression by Mark Williams
    • How the Word Is Passed by Clint Smith
    • Built to Last by Jim Collins