Many companies make the statement “our people are our most important asset.” And then treat them as disposable parts and pieces. While a business must run in the black, saying one thing and doing another is the issue at hand. As it is in networking as well.
Over the past number of weeks I have been exposed to two different companies that are a breath of fresh air in this day and age of the disposable workforce.
The first company, a client of mine, is a small chemical supply company in North Texas. Their market is based upon relationship selling and that has spilled over into the operation of the business. Although, I think it has more to do with the ethics and attitude of the owner.
The company is just reaching it’s 30th anniversary and most of the approximately 20 employees have been there from the beginning. In my interviews of employees, a recurring theme is “I love my work and we’ve got (the CEO).” The boss treats his employees as family, finding ways to keep them when budgets get tight by reinventing jobs, giving them time off for family emergencies and challenges and channeling talents toward work that needs to be done, regardless of job title. While people admittedly don’t make a lot of money in salary, they do have job security and want to come to work each day and do their best.
The second example company is a freight company in Arkansas. Founded by the CEO and his father, the company has reinvented itself to meet market demands and needs. Along the way, they have built and nurtured a workforce by choosing the best person for the company and training them to do their job. The average tenure at the company is 21 years for the 100-plus employees. And this is at a company that is 23 years old in its current form.
This CEO is unassuming and gives all the credit to his employees. Regular catered picnics, award travel on significant anniversaries and a well-equipped lounge and workout room are amenities for his staff. But, more importantly are his feelings about them as family: granting time off without question or helping folks financially are also his style. Again, the staff feels the boss is their biggest asset.
Treating people as if they are valued is important whether you employ them or connect with them in a networking situation. But, most importantly, meaning what you say and backing it up with actions has far more impact than just words.
Relentless
