The Human Cost of Efficiency with Nick Smallman and Dan Parry

”The Human Cost Of Efficiency” Join me and my guests Dan Parry, Head of Communications at London based Working Voices and Nick Smallman, Founder and CEO at Working Voices (workingvoices.com) as we discuss their new book Engaging Teams. Work environments that largely stress efficiency while devaluing employee wellbeing are contributing to an epidemic of worker disengagement. Businesses that hope to survive disruption and retain a skilled workforce must recognize that their survival depends upon employee wellbeing. The worldwide cost of employee disengagement in terms of lost productivity has reached $8.9 trillion a year — equal to 9 percent of global GDP. SPONSORED BY POWER OF YOU™ . Find out more at https://leader.blainebartlett.com/power-of-you Summary In this conversation, Blaine, Dan Parry, and Nick Smallman explore the concept of the 'soul of business' and its implications for employee engagement and organizational culture. They discuss the persistent issue of worker disengagement, the impact of efficiency-driven practices on employee morale, and the importance of social wellbeing in fostering a thriving workplace. The discussion highlights the need for leaders to adopt a more human-centric approach to business, especially in the wake of challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. They discuss the critical importance of psychological safety, employee autonomy, and the impact of AI on the workplace. They explore the causes of burnout and the need for future skills in a rapidly changing work environment. The discussion emphasizes the role of culture in fostering social well-being and the strategic importance of HR in enhancing employee engagement and retention. Takeaways The soul of business evokes emotional engagement. Employee disengagement has not improved in 25 years. COVID revealed long-standing disengagement issues. Efficiency can lead to employee resentment. Survivor syndrome affects those who remain after layoffs. Human consequences of efficiency are often overlooked. Leaders must focus on social wellbeing. Creating a less human workplace is unhealthy. The best workable solution is not always the most efficient. Engaging teams is crucial for performance and culture. Suppressing natural human rebellions is counterproductive. Psychological safety is essential for creativity and innovation. Employee autonomy leads to greater engagement and satisfaction. AI will significantly change workplace dynamics in the coming years. Burnout often stems from disconnection from meaningful work. Future skills include critical thinking and emotional intelligence. Social well-being is crucial for a healthy workplace culture. Trust and respect are foundational to employee engagement. HR should act as a strategic partner in fostering workplace culture. Leadership must focus on guiding teams through change. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices