Proverbs 13:4 “A sluggard’s appetite is never filled, but the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied.”
Principle: Grant power and freedom to diligent employees who are competent – then watch satisfaction levels rise.
Diligent employees given decision-making power will benefit supervisors and customers.
Approximately one-half of all Americans say they are dissatisfied with their jobs. The same study showed it had to do with these issues: the lack of freedom to make decisions and little opportunity to fully use their skills and talents.
Many companies tell the worker what to do, when to do it, and how to do it with no connection to the goals of the company.
Well-meaning companies often limit decision-making to managers, whereas employees will feel trusted and respected if they can make a few important decisions on their own.
I like the “Welcome to Nordstrom” page for new employees, which clearly states Nordstrom’s number one goal as a company, “to provide outstanding customer service.”
Nordstrom urges new associates to set their personal and professional goals high and reminds them that Nordstrom has great confidence in their ability to achieve them.
Then they close with Nordstom Rules:
Rule #1: Use your good judgment in all situations. There will be no additional rules.
I think at least in Nordstrom’s early days, customers sensed there was something driving the consistent service offered; something other than a healthy commission program. It was giving the employees freedom and the ability to make judgment calls whether customers were buying or returning.
Dennis Bakke in his book, Joy at Work,wisely observes, “We have made the workplace a frustrating and joyless place where people do what they’re told and have few ways to participate in decisions or fully use their talents.”
Discussion:
1. As an employer, what decisions could you allow your employees to make that would increase their satisfaction level at work?
2. As an employee, how is your satisfaction level? What steps could you take, in conjunction with your employer, to find more satisfaction in your work?
