When work has personal meaning, people feel a sense of ownership in their jobs. But few employers do what it takes to make this a core part of their organization. This is apparent in the often bland, tone-deaf, and hollow mission statements companies adopt, which regularly turn out to be empty lip service to values that aren’t lived every day. To engage employees, develop an inspiring mission that people can get behind. It should be specific, relevant, and motivating. Of course, it’s not enough to have good words down on paper (or on your website). Your organization’s leaders need to live the values implied in your mission statement and expect others to as well. By making sure all people in power walk the talk, you can begin to give employees the meaning they crave.
Adapted from “To Give Your Employees Meaning, Start With Mission” by Teresa Amabile and Steve Kramer.
