Monday Moanin Thoughts #48 Workplace Survey 2012, What Really Matters

Welcome to the Monday Moanin thoughts the week of  Thanksgiving 2012. Thanksgiving is a great time to be full of gratitude and thankfulness. It is also a perfect time to reflect on how effective you are performing in your areas of responsibility. As a nice prompt to assist in your reflection, I will share some information from the 2012 Detroit Free Press Workplace Survey.

What do you think are the issues that are most important in your organization?  47,000 workers participated in the survey conducted for the Free Press by Workplace Dynamics. The top three issues of importance for workers are listed in bold print below. They are:

Connection-“I feel genuinely appreciated at work, and my job makes me feel like I am part of something meaningful.”

Direction- “ I believe we are going in the right direction and I have confidence in the leadership.”

Execution-” We do things efficiently and well and we are encouraged to think outside the box.”

One of the key ingredients to being recognized as a top organization is paying attention to the soft stuff. Surprisingly, the importance of connection, vision, and being part of a productive organization are more important than pay and benefits. As you reflect on your performance and role, where are you on the soft stuff? What would your staff say about you  and your connection with them? Do you encourage your staff to try new things? As a leader, are  you well organized and do you keep your staff well informed? Is your organization striving to get better?

During the coming weeks, focus your energy on the three areas 47,000 workers say is most important in the workplace.  It will only enhance your performance and organization.

Have a great Thanksgiving and keep finding the good stuff!

Quote of the week:

“The environment is awesome. I love working for people that actually care about you. My leader has challenged me to do my best. I feel like I make a difference.”Participant in the Workplace Survey 2012.

For more information, http://www.freep.com/article/20121118/COL06/311180173/Tom-Walsh-2012-top-workplaces?odyssey=nav|head