Demystifying the People First Business: What It Is and What It Isn’t
The term “People First” is increasingly used in business, but what does it mean? Understanding the true nature of a People First business can help demystify the concept and clear up common misconceptions.
There's no magic formula for great company culture. The key is just to treat your staff how you would like to be treated.
Richard Branson
What Is a People First Business?
A People First business prioritises the well-being and development of its employees. This approach believes that by taking care of the people who work for you, you inherently take care of your business.
Happy, engaged, and valued employees are more productive, creative, and loyal. Key elements include:
Employee Well-being: This involves ensuring employees have a healthy work-life balance, access to mental health resources, and a safe working environment.
Personal Development: Providing opportunities for growth through training, mentoring, and career advancement.
Recognition and Rewards: Regularly acknowledge and reward the contributions of employees.
What It Isn’t
A People First business is not about indulging employees to the point of neglecting business goals or creating an undisciplined work environment. It’s also not about superficial perks that don’t address deeper employee satisfaction and engagement issues. It’s a balanced approach that meets the needs of the business and the employees.
Common Misconceptions
Several myths surround the People First approach, and it’s crucial to dispel these to adopt a genuine People First culture.
Myth 1: You Can’t Have High Expectations
Some believe that putting people first means lowering expectations or not pushing for high performance. In reality, a People First culture sets clear expectations but provides the support needed to meet them. This includes clear communication, proper training, and constructive feedback.
Myth 2: You Can’t Tell People What to Do
Another misconception is that you can’t direct employees at all. A People First approach doesn’t mean a lack of direction; it means giving guidance in a respectful and supportive manner. It’s about leading by example and providing a framework for employees to operate effectively and creatively.
Myth 3: It’s All About Perks
Many think a People First culture is about snazzy perks like free lunches or football tables. While perks can be nice, they don’t replace meaningful engagement. True People First initiatives focus on job satisfaction, meaningful work, and professional growth.
Encouraging a People-First Culture
To develop a People First environment, it’s important to understand what you can and can’t do to encourage this culture.
What You Can Do
Create a Supportive Framework: Provide clear expectations and the tools needed to meet them. This includes adequate training, resources, and a supportive work environment.
Facilitate Open Communication: Encourage open dialogue between management and employees. This means listening to feedback and being transparent about decisions.
Recognise Achievements: Regularly acknowledge and reward your team member’s hard work and successes.
What You Can’t Do
Ignore Business Goals: A People First approach doesn’t mean neglecting business objectives. Instead, align employee well-being with achieving these goals.
Micromanage: Avoid micromanaging. Trust your employees to do their jobs and give them the autonomy to make decisions within the provided framework.
Rely Solely on Perks: We don’t think superficial perks are enough. Focus on meaningful engagement and genuine concern for employee well-being.
The real competitive advantage in any business is
one word only, which is “people”.Kamil Toume
Why Bother
A People-First business is about balancing employees’ needs with the organisation’s goals.
By dispelling myths and understanding what constitutes a People-First approach, companies can create an environment where employees thrive, and business goals are met.
This is a win-win situation that encourages a positive, productive, and sustainable workplace.
Read more on the measurable long-term benefits of a people-first business here: https://www.modern.works/blog/the-battle-of-leadership-styles-command-and-control-vs-people-first