In today's fast-paced, technology-driven world, it's easy to forget that businesses are made up of real people with real emotions, needs, and desires. Erica Keswin's book, "Bring Your Human to Work," serves as a timely reminder of the importance of human connection in the workplace. This insightful guide offers practical advice on how to create a more authentic, engaging, and productive work environment by embracing our humanity.
Introduction
The modern workplace has become increasingly disconnected, with face-to-face interactions often replaced by instant messaging and digital communication. However, Keswin argues that by bringing our authentic selves to work and fostering genuine connections with colleagues and customers, we can create a more fulfilling and successful work experience for everyone involved.
Throughout the book, Keswin explores various aspects of workplace culture, from meetings and wellness programs to community involvement and expressions of gratitude. She provides real-world examples of companies that have successfully implemented human-centric practices, demonstrating the tangible benefits of prioritizing connection and authenticity in the business world.
The Power of Authenticity
One of the core messages of "Bring Your Human to Work" is the importance of being your authentic self in the workplace. Keswin challenges the traditional notion that we should keep our personal and professional lives separate, arguing instead that embracing our true selves can lead to greater success and satisfaction at work.
The Benefits of Being Real
Research from Harvard Business School has shown that businesses that celebrate their employees' authentic personalities enjoy higher employee retention rates and more satisfied customers. This finding highlights the value of allowing individuals to bring their whole selves to work, rather than forcing them to conform to a rigid corporate identity.
Authenticity in Action: The Hedley & Bennett Story
To illustrate the power of authenticity, Keswin shares the story of Ellen Bennett, founder of the apron company Hedley & Bennett. Bennett built her brand around her authentic personality, positioning herself as a millennial entrepreneur with a mission to make the world better "one apron at a time." Her genuine communication style, which included the occasional use of colorful language, helped her stand out in the industry and ultimately led to the company's success as a global leader in fashionable kitchen aprons.
The Role of Storytelling
Keswin emphasizes the importance of storytelling as a means of fostering authenticity and connection in the workplace. She cites JetBlue as an example of a company that effectively uses storytelling to communicate its values and create a warm, authentic brand image. During onboarding ceremonies, JetBlue employees share personal stories that highlight the company's values, while audio recordings of satisfied customers provide real-life examples of positive experiences with the airline.
Balancing Technology and Human Connection
In an era of rapid technological advancement, finding the right balance between efficiency and human interaction has become a crucial challenge for businesses. Keswin argues that while technology can streamline processes and improve productivity, it's essential to maintain a human touch in customer interactions and internal communications.
The Sweet Spot Between Technology and Human Interaction
Keswin suggests that the key to successfully integrating technology in the workplace is to use it in ways that free up employees to have more meaningful human interactions. She returns to the example of JetBlue, which has implemented self-check-in and bag-tagging systems at airports. By automating these routine tasks, JetBlue staff members have more time to engage with passengers, providing personalized assistance and enhancing the overall customer experience.
Invisible Technology: The Union Square Cafe Example
Sometimes, the most effective use of technology is when it operates behind the scenes, enhancing the human experience without being visible to customers. Keswin describes how the Union Square Cafe in New York City equips its staff with Apple smartwatches, allowing seamless coordination between waiters, coat check staff, and cooks. This invisible technology improves the dining experience by reducing wait times and increasing efficiency, all while maintaining a fully human interaction between staff and customers.
Reimagining Meetings for Greater Productivity
Meetings are a ubiquitous part of workplace culture, but they often fail to achieve their intended purpose. Keswin tackles this issue head-on, offering strategies for making meetings more productive and aligned with company values.
The Problem with Meetings
Keswin points out that American businesses waste an estimated $37 billion annually on unproductive meetings. The main issue, she argues, is that many meetings lack a clear purpose or strategy for achieving their goals.
Strategies for Better Meetings
To improve the effectiveness of meetings, Keswin suggests several approaches:
Align meetings with organizational values: For example, the digital platform Mogul emphasizes transparency by sharing financial updates and key performance metrics during company meetings.
Rethink meeting spaces: Consider using round tables instead of rectangular ones to encourage more open and dynamic communication among attendees.
Ensure equal participation: As a meeting leader, make an effort to involve more reticent participants by directly asking for their opinions.
The Importance of Workplace Wellness
Keswin dedicates a significant portion of the book to discussing the benefits of supporting employee wellness. She traces the origins of occupational medicine back to the 18th century and explores how modern companies are taking innovative approaches to promote employee well-being.
The Benefits of Wellness Programs
Research has shown that investing in employee wellness can yield significant returns for businesses. A 2014 study published in the Harvard Business Review found that every dollar spent on employee wellness interventions resulted in six dollars of savings in healthcare costs. Additionally, wellness initiatives have been linked to increased productivity, better performance, and higher levels of employee morale and engagement.
Vynamic: A Case Study in Comprehensive Wellness
Keswin highlights the health-care consulting firm Vynamic as an example of a company that has taken an innovative approach to employee wellness. In addition to offering traditional benefits like gym memberships, Vynamic provides:
- Nutritious snacks
- Ergonomic chairs
- Treadmill desks
- The option for consultants to choose their projects
This comprehensive approach to wellness has resulted in an employee turnover rate that is half the industry average, demonstrating the power of creating a caring, human-centered workplace.
Giving Back to the Community
Another key aspect of bringing humanity to work is engaging with the wider community through charitable initiatives and volunteer work. Keswin argues that when companies give back, it benefits not only the community but also the employees and the business itself.
The Power of Corporate Philanthropy
Research has shown that employees who feel inspired by volunteer projects are three times more productive than those who don't. Additionally, over three-quarters of the small companies listed by Inc. magazine as the best places to work offer their staff time off for volunteering.
Authenticity in Giving Back: The Mack Weldon Example
Keswin emphasizes the importance of authenticity in corporate philanthropy, using the example of men's underwear brand Mack Weldon. Rather than rushing into a generic charitable initiative, founder Brian Berger waited until he found a project that aligned with his company's values. Five years after the company's founding, Mack Weldon partnered with Community Recycle, a textile recycling project that encourages customers to send in their old clothing for recycling. This initiative has not only prevented eleven thousand tons of clothing from entering landfills but has also provided quality garments for underserved communities.
The Importance of Taking Breaks
In a culture that often glorifies constant productivity, Keswin reminds readers of the value of taking breaks and disconnecting from work. She argues that stepping back from our daily routines can lead to increased creativity, innovation, and even career advancement.
The Benefits of Downtime
Research has shown that employees who take vacations are 6 percent more likely to receive promotions than those who don't. Additionally, studies have found that our most innovative ideas often come when we step away from our regular routines and allow ourselves to experience boredom.
The Power of Unplugging
Keswin cites a study in which entrepreneurs and executives took a week-long break from all electronic devices and online activity. Just three days into the experiment, many participants decided to make significant changes in their relationships and careers. By the end of the study, they reported improved eye contact, better posture, and increased energy levels.
Leading by Example: Tristan Walker's Paternity Leave
To illustrate how taking time off can coexist with business success, Keswin shares the story of Tristan Walker, CEO of health and beauty brand Walker & Company. Walker, who grew up without a father, decided to take three months of paternity leave when his son was born. Despite this extended break, Walker & Company has become a highly successful business, demonstrating that it's possible to prioritize both personal life and professional success.
The Power of Gratitude
Keswin concludes her book by emphasizing the importance of expressing gratitude in the workplace. She argues that showing appreciation for colleagues and employees can foster deeper connections and improve overall job satisfaction and engagement.
The Starbucks Example
To illustrate the impact of gratitude, Keswin shares a personal anecdote about a Starbucks barista who went above and beyond to make her daughter feel appreciated. This small act of kindness created a lasting positive impression of both the individual employee and the company as a whole.
Innovative Approaches to Gratitude
Keswin highlights two companies that have found unique ways to incorporate gratitude into their workplace culture:
SoulCycle: The fitness company gives new recruits ten small pins representing the company's core values. Employees can give these pins to colleagues who embody these values, creating a tangible way to express appreciation.
Indagare: This travel start-up holds daily gratitude meetings where employees share what they're thankful for in both their work and personal lives. These sessions not only allow for expressions of gratitude but also help employees gain deeper insights into each other's lives.
The Impact of Workplace Friendships
Keswin cites a Gallup study that found when employees feel they have a good friend at work, their level of engagement increases, and they are less likely to leave the company. By fostering an environment where gratitude is freely expressed, companies can create stronger bonds between employees and improve overall job satisfaction.
Final Thoughts
"Bring Your Human to Work" serves as a powerful reminder that in the midst of our technology-driven world, the most valuable asset in any business is its people. By embracing authenticity, fostering genuine connections, and prioritizing human needs, companies can create more engaging, productive, and fulfilling work environments.
Keswin's book offers a wealth of practical advice and real-world examples that demonstrate the tangible benefits of putting humanity at the center of workplace culture. From reimagining meetings and wellness programs to encouraging community involvement and expressions of gratitude, the strategies outlined in this book provide a roadmap for creating a more human-centric workplace.
As we navigate the challenges of the modern business world, "Bring Your Human to Work" reminds us that success is not just about bottom lines and productivity metrics. It's about creating an environment where people can thrive, connect, and find meaning in their work. By embracing our humanity and fostering authentic connections, we can build stronger, more resilient organizations that are better equipped to face the challenges of the future.
In the end, Keswin's message is clear: when we bring our whole selves to work and create space for others to do the same, everyone benefits. Employees are more engaged and satisfied, customers receive better service, and businesses become more innovative and successful. As we move forward in an increasingly digital world, it's crucial that we don't lose sight of the human element that makes work truly meaningful and rewarding.
So, the next time you find yourself caught up in the daily grind of emails, meetings, and deadlines, take a moment to remember Keswin's advice. Look for opportunities to connect with your colleagues on a personal level, express gratitude for their contributions, and bring your authentic self to every interaction. By doing so, you'll not only improve your own work experience but also contribute to creating a more human-centered workplace for everyone around you.