Be The Why

So much has been written and said about the generational differences when it comes to work. Millennials want a fun, egalitarian workplace. Gen X'ers want a casual relationship with authority and disdain policy. Boomers want a cordial, non-combative atmosphere. The Mature generation wants an environment where loyalty is valued. Whether truth, stereotype, nature, or nurture, the list of perceived differences is long.

On the other hand, there are many commonalities between the generations of workers that are often ignored, but valuable to know. In particular, all ages of workers have consistently said that they want to make a difference. Why is that valuable to know?

As companies establish performance expectations, goals, and objectives, it's not enough to just say, "this is what we're doing." Today's employees want and need to know "why".

Managers need to be able to explain to their employees how their responsibilities and goals fit with the company's plans. Likewise, the company's senior management owes it to the employees to provide goals and purpose that they can align with and believe in.

Purpose has got to be more than "let's make more money".  Workers today want to know that they personally matter and that what they're doing makes a difference.  How's your company's management connecting what you and your employees do to "why" it makes a difference?  Do you know your "Why"?

Make it happen!

Cindy Sanders Meyer

A 5K Investment

Have you ever wondered why so many people participate in 5K walk/run events for charity? In my town, there are at least one or two every weekend. People turn out to run or walk them by the thousands. They bring their whole family. I have friends that participate in these events just about every weekend from April through September.

Think about it. What is the draw to pay to work hard (and get sweaty) in public with a bunch of other sweaty people? I have some ideas why.

1. People like to start their day feeling productive by accomplishing something important.


2. People enjoy setting and achieving goals; especially those that are realistically high.


3. People feel better, not just from the exercise, but from helping a good cause bigger than them.


4. People are more likely to achieve a goal, if they make a commitment to others. In this case, you sign up to participate in the run in advance, pay to do so, and put it in writing.


5. It’s not just about results, it’s about continuous measurable results. You can manage your own performance and improvement better and sooner when you know how you're doing along the way.


6. People enjoy being encouraged and celebrated on the journey and at the finish line.

How many of these ideas could be applied for achieving your goals or your company’s goals?

Oh, and in case you’re in the Kansas City area this weekend and are looking for a 5K run/walk event for a good cause, I’ll be working one. Check it out at Jazz in the Woods 5K Walk and Run. 

Make it happen!

Cindy Sanders Meyer