Changing the Way We Think About People
People are vital to your business. There are people in every area that you work in. Think about it, you have co-workers, vendors and suppliers. There are people that you need to convince, others you need to partner with and those that you need to sell something to. The way we think about all these people is important. Our business life is made of up of different types of relationships. How do you view everyone you interact with? Are they a problem or a gift? Let me share this perspective with you:
In the book of Jeremiah, we get a window into the way God thinks about people. He thinks about ways to be a blessing, to enrich and grow our lives.
“For I know the thoughts I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.”
Jeremiah 29:11 Tweet
Value and Recognition
How can we think differently? Here are a few ideas of ways we can refresh our perspective:
- Learn from people unlike you. Become a master at asking questions. This skill will develop you as a leader and maybe give you a new avenue for R&D. It also invites people to make valuable contributions to the team, making them feel a part of something bigger than themselves.
- When it comes to your customers, consider the perspective of giving something to them rather than getting something from them. Entrepreneurs often come up with the best ideas when they have others in mind. Understanding someone enough to identify a need and then meeting that need is a great way to develop new products, services and systems.
- Start an employee recognition program. When we recognize and value a person it has so many benefits to or companies. Research has shown that employee turnover decreases, job satisfaction and productivity increases. A program like this doesn’t have to be expensive. Don’t underestimate the value of a certificate signed by the Boss or a trophy given out. Can you give an extra day off as a reward for a job well done?
I believe there is great value in people. You can read here some of my thoughts on how to release the greatness in them. When our employees get better, our business gets better.