Does mindset really matter? If it does, how can you tell if an organization has the right mindset?
One way to evaluate whether or not an organization is a People First organization is through its mindset. The mindset of an organization can be seen through its behavior.
We’ve all seen organizations that say they care about their team members’ professional development but only reward productivity. This is a common disconnect between what an organization SAYS and what it actually DOES. This can be solved by providing clarity with what the organization THINKS. What an organization THINKS, or their mindset, is the foundation of the organization and directs what the organization SAYS. Words have a way of impacting behaviors, which is why what an organization SAYS impacts what it DOES. An organization’s processes, systems, activities, and leadership patterns are all behaviors that can be traced back to the original mindset of the organization.
An organization that does not have a People First mindset will view people as a means to an end, valuing only their productivity and what they produce. This mindset will impact how the organization communicates with and treats its employees. In turn, most employees may not feel trusted or safe at their own job. Overtime, this type of environment may lead to burn out.
A People First mindset values people as people–not as tools or commodities that can be switched out or changed when they aren’t working out. Having a People First mindset recognizes that by nature people want to do good work, and acknowledges that a leader’s role is to uncover and nurture that person. Once a leader reflects this mindset in their behavior, it is easier to avoid the endless hire and fire cycle many companies experience.
A People First mindset will also impact the behavior of its employees. When an employee feels supported, seen, and valued, it increases trust and improves communication between management and staff. This mindset also increases accountability amongst all parties as well as creates an environment that is conducive for growth. And, this type of environment is noticeable from the outside. When the behavior of an organization is inherently supportive, positive, and people-minded, clients will feel that.
Mindset is important. As an organization, it is essential that mindset is taken seriously. Taking the time to develop a strong and clear mindset will impact a whole organization for the better.
In my book, People First, I discuss a People First mindset more in-depth, and how you can implement this mindset in your everyday life. The book launched August 24th and you can order it HERE.
