In today’s world “purpose” has become a popular buzzworld in workplaces all around the world. Employees don’t just want paychecks in exchange for cranking out tasks, they want to get some kind of meaning from the work they are doing. Studies consistently show that a sense of purpose at work boosts engagement, productivity, creativity, and loyalty. A recent McKinsey study found that 70% of employees say their work defines their sense of purpose. This should make sense since we spend almost as much time at work as we do outside of work (about 1/3rd of our waking hours).
Purpose acts like a compass that helps us get through tough days, monotonous projects, difficult leaders, or challenging circumstances. But who is ultimately responsible for creating that sense of purpose for employees? The truth is that purpose is a shared responsibility…it’s a two way street and both employees and the leaders of organizations have a role to play.
The Role Of Organizations
The organization can set the stage for creating purpose by outline a clear mission, values, and impact that employees can rally behind. Here are a few specific things they can do:
Communicate a meaningful vision:
Employees should understand how the work they are doing connects to the greater mission of the organization beyond financial targets. This means making sure that employees have a clear sense of what the company does and why it does it. Perhaps the most effective way to do this via telling stories and letting employees across all levels of the organization interact with customers.
Growth and development:
People oftentimes find purpose when they feel like they are learning and growing. In fact this is what self-actualization in Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs is all about. Whether it’s training programs, coaching and mentoring, or personal career development pathways, all of these things can help ensure that employees are able to align the work they are doing with the aspirations they have.
Focus on strengths:
Purpose is most deeply felt when employees can use their unique skills and talents in meaningful ways. Organizations can help support this by making sure that they identify the strengths of their employees and then create teams where employees have the opportunity to showcase their strengths. This can include cross-functional projects, stretch assignments, opportunities in new geographic locations, and access to internal talent marketplaces.
The Role Of Employees
Too often, employees expect companies to “give” them purpose, as if it’s an external force that must be bestowed upon them. But the truth is that employees play a pivotal role in creating their own sense of purpose. Here are a few specific things they can do:
Understanding their values:
Employees should reflect on what they care about most and why and then seek our roles and organizations that most align with those values. If someone takes a job without knowing these things about themselves then it’s not likely that the organization will be able to do anything to manifest purpose. This requires a high level of self-awareness.
Seek out challenges and growth:
Organizations can provide employees with certain tools and opportunities but it’s ultimately up to employees to take advantage of them and to seek them out. Instead of being reactive, it’s far more effective to be proactive. Have conversations with your leaders and be vocal about your desire to grow. Of course this also means that you should be highly competent in your existing role as well.
Build relationships:
Purpose is oftentimes found not just in the work you do but who you do the work with. This includes mentorship, volunteer opportunities, team-building, and collaborating with your peers and colleagues. Employees should actively build relationships with the people they work with.
Take ownership:
This is perhaps the most important thing for employees. Take responsibility for your own growth, development, performance, and career trajectory. If you make a mistake, own it and if you hit a home run, don’t be scared to celebrate it. The less you see yourself as a victim and the more you see yourself as an owner, the more likely you are to feel connected to the work you are doing.
The most effective workplaces are those where purpose is co-created. The company provides an environment where purpose can flourish, but employees must also take the initiative to find and cultivate their own meaning in their work. When both parties invest in purpose, then everyone wins. The question isn’t just, “Does my company give me purpose?” but also, “Am I seeking and creating purpose in my work?” The answer to both determines not just job satisfaction but long-term success—for individuals and organizations alike.
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Do you know the most important factor in your company’s success? It’s your people. They’re the heart of your business. So, how do you harness this potential?
Insperity can help. From recruiting and onboarding to employee development and retention, they’ll help you build a stronger, more resilient organization. See the difference the right approach to human resources can make – because how you HR matters. Find out more at Insperity.com/hrmatters.
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