Organizations and their employees are undergoing a massive shift in awareness. Many businesses are facing major challenges. New approaches are essential to ensure sustainable economic success.
A change in consciousness as the foundation for a purposeful business
At a time when purely economic figures are no longer enough to run a company successfully, a holistic approach is becoming increasingly important. Companies that recognize a deeper meaning behind their activities are better able to assert themselves in this time of change. It is no longer enough to focus solely on external factors such as profit maximization and cost reduction. Rather, it is about strengthening companies from within and rediscovering their true identity.
This new awareness is the basis for a genuine, free economy in which companies become aware of their soul and act from deep within. When employees recognize their purpose in their daily work, their motivation and willingness to perform increases. The inner strength that results from this is an inexhaustible source of energy that makes companies more successful in the long term.
Where is the soul of the company to be found?
Every organization was once founded on the basis of an idea and a basic energy – often with positive intentions for people and the economy. This basic energy forms the soul of the company. Over time, however, this essence can fade into the background due to excessive and rapid growth, external influences or economic pressure.
The soul of a company is reflected in its vision, mission and values. Ideally, these are set out in a mission statement that serves as a point of orientation for the company, its managers and employees. Particularly in difficult times, a strongly anchored mission statement can show the way and help the company not to lose focus.
The current situation: a look at the facts
In Gallup’s State of the Global Workplace report, it’s apparent how employees’ emotional ties to their companies are weak. In Western Europe, for example:
- between 83% – 95% of all employees are actively disengaged or disengaged, depending on the country. This means that these employees are either deliberately obstructive or just serving by the book, thus preventing any progress from being made.
- in contrast, only 5 – 17% of all employees are engaged. Which means that, depending on the country, between 5 – 17% of all employees are responsible for the results.
In comparison, in the USA and Canada:
- 69% of all employees are either actively disengaged or not engaged. Compared to Western Europe, in a 100-employee company, that’s between 14 – 26 fewer employees who are preventing the company from developing.
- and 31% of all employees are engaged. Compared to Western Europe, in a company with 100 employees, that’s between 14 – 26 more employees who are responsible for the results. The foundation for good results is much broader.
What does this show us?
These figures make it clear that many people lack a sense of purpose in their work. Identification with the company is often lost because top management no longer actively exemplifies the original vision and core values and integrates them into everyday life.
In addition, many companies are too strongly oriented towards external guidelines instead of preserving their own identity. This creates an imbalance between inner substance and external conformity. The result is alienation from the original business vision and thus a decline in employee motivation and willingness to perform.
The 6 main reasons why businesses lose their purpose?
The 6 main reasons why businesses lose their sense of purpose are:
- Focus on short-term profits: businesses that look solely at quarterly numbers often lose sight of their original mission.
- Lack of core values: If values are not actively lived, they remain empty phrases in image brochures or on websites.
- Lack of emotional commitment from employees: Gallup studies show that unmotivated employees are significantly less productive and do not identify with the company.
- External influences and market pressures: Businesses often adapt too much to external requirements instead of acting on their own initiative.
- Lack of willingness to innovate: Businesses that do not continuously develop themselves further often lose their competitiveness and therefore also their raison d’être.
- Lack of communication and transparency: Without open and honest communication between management and employees, there can be no real sense of belonging.
The rediscovery of the company soul
Just like a person, a company has a soul. This soul is what makes up the core of the company – its vision, its values and its fundamental beliefs.
1. Redefine the vision
Every business needs a clear, inspiring vision that serves as the North Star for all decisions. This vision should go far beyond simply generating profits. Questions that can help:
- Why was this company founded?
- What greater impact do we want to achieve?
- What problem are we solving in this world?
- What values are really important to us?
- How do we want to be perceived by our customers, partners and employees?
2. Actively living values
Corporate values are only valuable if they are integrated into everyday life. A purely theoretical values paper is useless if it is not put into practice. Managers must act as role models and exemplify the values in their decisions and actions.
3. Cleanse the company energy
Many companies carry around energetic blockages that hinder the flow of innovation and creativity. These blockages can be removed through conscious cultural work, coaching and entrepreneurial self-reflection.
The 7 steps to implementation in everyday life
Consistent implementation is crucial for success. The company management must be behind the change, otherwise the project is doomed to failure. The involvement of all those involved – from top management to employees – is essential. Here is a tried and tested approach:
- Analyze the current situation: Where does the company currently stand? What is going well, what is not?
- Definition of the ultimate goal: What should be achieved? Which values and principles should be strengthened?
- Project planning: All measures must be geared towards the end goal.
- Workshops and training: Involve employees to create awareness and derive concrete steps.
- Integration into day-to-day work: Incorporate the values and principles developed into the company’s daily routine.
- Measuring success: Regularly check whether the desired effects are occurring.
- Make adjustments: Integrate findings into everyday life and continuously improve.
Conclusion: Why it’s worth it
Rediscovering the organizational soul not only brings inner clarity, but also economic success. A study by Gallup “Organizational Culture” showed that net profit increased by 85% over a period of five years.
Companies that act from an authentic identity are more robust, more innovative and attract motivated employees. Motivation increases, employee loyalty improves significantly and the company develops sustainably in the long term.
A company that lives its purpose is not only economically more successful, but also a source of inspiration for employees, customers and partners. Those who are prepared to follow this path consistently can not only transform their business, but also make a positive contribution to society.
Would you like to initiate this process in your company? Get in touch with me. Together we will find an individual way to fill your company with meaning again and to act more successfully.
