Episode 151: 3 Ways to Help Employees Love Their Jobs

The 90th Percentile: An Unconventional Leadership Podcast

Details

Do the people you manage love their jobs? Or do you sense that some are dissatisfied or disengaged? It’s no secret that employees who love their jobs work harder and are willing to go the extra mile, which benefits any organization. While the core of great leadership remains unchanged, the landscape of work has dramatically transformed in the past decade.

Key Learnings

1. Leaders Energize Teams Through Inspiration and Clear Priorities
   Effective leaders act as a source of energy for their teams by inspiring them through challenging but achievable goals. Success in accomplishing such goals helps employees discover their own potential. Additionally, leaders should focus on setting clear priorities—ensuring that teams understand what truly matters most.
2. Effective Communication is Foundational to Team Success
   Leaders must consistently communicate the “what, where, when, and how” of tasks and goals. Clear and repetitive communication ensures alignment, reduces confusion, and fosters a shared sense of direction within the team. Consistent messaging is key to avoiding missteps and maintaining focus.
3. Continuous Learning Drives Engagement and Future-Proofing
   Employees thrive when they are seen as individuals with long-term potential rather than mere resources. Leaders should actively support opportunities for learning and growth, such as reskilling programs or career development initiatives. Encouraging continuous learning not only improves job performance but also boosts employee loyalty.
4. Coaching Builds Commitment and Accountability
   The best coaches are great listeners. Rather than dictating solutions, they ask questions like, “What do you think would work here?” This approach empowers employees, increases their sense of ownership, and raises commitment. Following up on progress is equally important, as it builds accountability and shows that the leader genuinely cares about their development.
5. Purpose Transforms Jobs into Meaningful Work
   Connecting employees to the deeper purpose of their roles enhances engagement and retention. Leaders should craft compelling narratives that highlight the value their employees bring to the world. As illustrated in the janitor example, authentic and meaningful stories about the impact of a job can reshape how employees view their work, transforming routine tasks into acts of service and heroism.

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Research

Clint Pulver Video

World Economic Forum Study- Reskilling Revolution

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