Can organisations gain a strategic advantage by investing in their employees?

Stephan Meier, a Columbia Business School professor, and author of The Employee Advantage, shares, in this episode, the relationship between employee motivation, organisational culture, and profitability.

Stephan reveals that organisations prioritising employee well-being, ones that align with their core values, foster ethical behaviour and a positive work environment that benefits all with profitability and increased job satisfaction.

Hear Stephan share examples from companies like ING and Zappos, highlighting the benefits of an employee-centric approach. You'll also hear outlines for four key motivators: purpose, autonomy, competence, and relatedness, that drive employee engagement and satisfaction.

Stephan's tips for a happy workplace:

• Listen to employees and engage with them
• Trust what comes your way
• Be very intentional

Links and resources mentioned in this episode:

Stephan's Lego brick-by-brick videos

And here is Stephan's story of why he does them on YouTube

Kelly McGovern is the Chief Nurse at the West Hertfordshire Foundation Trust

In this episode, Kelly shares how she has fostered a transformative culture of trust and empowerment in a healthcare environment.

Kelly shares her leadership journey, highlighting the importance of empowering staff to drive change and celebrate small wins.

She recounts how her hands-on approach and role modeling have led to significant improvements in patient care, such as reduced waiting times and better discharge rates.

The conversation reveals the positive impact of a supportive work environment and the importance of breaking outdated rules toward fostering innovation and collaboration in healthcare.

Ann Hartland, Deputy CEO and Growth Director of Cedar, discusses the importance of joy at work, personal growth, and leadership as well as her experiences in the Level 7 Senior Leadership Programme.

Ann shares insights into her role highlighting a people-first approach and the significance of listening to employees.

Today's conversation reveals some of the challenges and successes of implementing a positive workplace culture and the practical application of theoretical learnings.

Ann also touches on her personal interests, including dog massage therapy and triathlons, underscoring the value of maintaining joy both in and out of work.

Ann's tips for a happy workplace:

• Do you know what is expected of you at work?
• Do you have the opportunity to do what you do best every day?
• Regular, direct and honest communication

Links and resources mentioned in this episode:

Daniel Pink's book Drive

Bruce Daisley's podcast Eat, Sleep, Work, Repeat

Gallup's 12 Engagement Questions