Time to try making your workplace a Labor of love

Next Monday, America will celebrate Labor Day.

Though it provides many with the opportunity to enjoy a three-day weekend as the unofficial end of summer, perhaps we should take a moment and reflect on the day’s true meaning.

Established on June 28, 1894, this year we celebrate the 125th anniversary of Labor Day. Since its inception, Labor Day is intended to celebrate the contributions of the American worker. Work and workplaces have changed dramatically over the past 125 years including employees’ interests and expectations relative to their jobs. What really matters to many employees is being treated with respect, having security, working in a safe and clean work environment, being paid fairly, being recognized for a job well done, work/life balance, having fun at work, having challenging work and being able to make a difference.

Perhaps there are more items you can add to this list. Interestingly, the traditional measures of business success are seldom thought of by employees as the important stuff.

Fortunately, there are many companies that are achieving spectacular business results while maintaining and enhancing a great workplace for their employees. Local examples of these organizations can be found through the NorthCoast 99 program.

These impressive organizations have a number of similar characteristics that include the following:

• It starts at the top — No doubt about it, company leaders set the tone and lead by example.

• Talent management is number one — Attracting and retaining top performing employees is the top priority of these organizations. It is a corporate initiative and policy that is communicated and well-understood by everyone in the company.

• Family first — Companies that prioritize their employees’ families over work are winning the hearts of employees across our region.

• Community driven — Regardless of generation, employees today have an expectation that their employers will support community initiatives.

• Lead versus manage — The old style of management is no longer appreciated or welcome in the workplace. Employees expect their company leadership to be respectful, support career development, set a great example and provide an environment where innovation, risk-taking and creativity are truly encouraged.

• Open book — Employees appreciate understanding what is going on with the business, well beyond a published Mission Statement. They want to understand the financials and really appreciate having an open door policy with top management.

• Well-structured reward programs — Individuals expect to be paid fairly for their job and performance.

In addition, employees appreciate a benefits package that provides choice and an array of meaningful programs. This would include a well-thought-out wellness program that provides employees avenues to support a healthy lifestyle.

• Do the right thing — Companies that are admired by their employees are ones that always do the right thing even if by doing so there are negative financial consequences. Ethical and honest leadership is a hallmark of these organizations.

• Respect in the workplace — In these organizations, the goal is to treat employees equally and with respect.

So as you enjoy your Labor Day Weekend, pause and consider the following:

Life is short and careers are even shorter.

In a blink of an eye, retirement arrives and the hope is that we look back on careers that were meaningful, provided a decent living and filled with great memories.

Sure, there may have been challenging times, but when I talk with retirees it seems to be the good times they most remember.

The lesson that many employers are learning these days is that if they work hard to help create great memories for their employees, those employees will work really hard to support the organization’s success.

And, that is something that corporate leaders should never forget.