The concept of employee experience is now a major theme in current business thinking and is seen as a key for organisations to be successful into the future. Reasons for the growth in this idea include generational change in the workplace, learnings from operating during Covid, and changing societal expectations.
It occurred to me recently as I was reflecting on the latest reports and findings that there are three common elements that keep cropping up in this area of conversations: Purpose, Authenticity and Resilience. Further, these factors, along with Employee Experience (EX) are all interconnected, and when all four combines, organisations have the highest chances of success.
Purpose: This is the “Why” for organisations of what they do and gives meaning and legitimacy to it. It is the contribution they are making to society by being net givers rather than takers. From this accrues respect.
Authenticity: Integrity, accountability and transparency are key elements of this component, where the organisation ‘walks the talk’ of its why. Trust is the fruit of authenticity.
Resilience: The organisation does not “cut and run” but is there for the ‘long haul’ because the organisation is adaptable in response to organic changes rather than succumbing to fads and cares about sustainability. Loyalty is earned through this.
The research is very clear that creating a positive employee experience is a key factor in organisational success, and when these foundational elements are evident and thriving in an organisation, they combine to create and enhance a positive employee experience, as depicted below:
Where these conditions exist in organisations, the purpose reminds employees that they are contributing to a higher purpose more than just profits, generating pride and respect and allows employees to align their own purpose and values with those of the organisation. When the organisation and its leaders model authenticity by living the values and holding others to those standards, employees know they can trust the organisation and its leaders, even when tough decisions need to be made. By having a history of resilience, employees understand the organisation will only adapt to remain true to fulfilling its purpose into the long run, earning their loyalty, and reducing employee turnover.
This perfect storm of elements creates the environment for organisations to become significant, sustainable, and successful.