The Power of Purpose: Helping Your Employees Embrace the Why Behind Their Work

Guest article by Shaara Roman | Author of The Conscious Workplace | Founder & CEO of The Silverene Group

As a leader, you know that your employees are the backbone of your organization. They work tirelessly day in and day out to achieve your company’s goals and drive its success. But have you ever stopped to consider if they truly understand the “why” behind their work?
The “why” is the purpose, the deeper meaning, the underlying reason for why your organization exists and why your employees do what they do. It’s the foundation upon which your company’s culture and values are built, and it’s what can motivate and inspire your employees to go above and beyond in their roles. When your employees truly understand and embrace the “why” behind their work, it can lead to increased job satisfaction, higher levels of engagement, and improved performance.
So, how can you help your employees embrace the “why” behind their work? Here are some tips to consider:

• Communicate the Vision: Clearly articulate the vision of your organization and how it aligns with the greater purpose. Your vision should be aspirational and should convey the impact your organization strives to make in the world. Regularly communicate and reinforce this vision to your employees through various channels, such as company meetings, team huddles, one-on-ones, and internal communications. Help your employees see the bigger picture and understand how their work contributes to the overall purpose.
• Connect to Values: Your organization’s values are the guiding principles that shape your team’s culture and behavior. Ensure that your employees are aware of these values and understand how they relate to the “why” behind their daily activities. Incorporate your values into your hiring process, performance evaluations, and recognition programs. Encourage your employees to demonstrate these values in their daily work and celebrate when they do.
• Share Success Stories: Highlight success stories that showcase the impact your organization has made in the lives of customers, clients, or the community. Share testimonials, case studies, or stories of how your work has positively affected others. These stories can help your employees connect emotionally to the purpose and feel a sense of pride in their contributions. Celebrate these successes and acknowledge the role your employees play in achieving them.
• Foster a Collaborative Culture: Creating a collaborative culture where employees feel supported, empowered, and included can foster a sense of purpose. Encourage collaboration across teams and departments, provide opportunities for cross-functional projects, and celebrate teamwork. Collaborative environments can foster creativity, innovation, and a shared sense of purpose among employees as they work towards common goals.
• Provide Development Opportunities: Help your employees grow and develop by providing opportunities for learning and growth. Offer training programs, workshops, and mentorship opportunities that align with your organization’s purpose. When employees feel like they are continuously learning and growing, they are more likely to stay engaged and committed to the “why” behind their work.
• Lead by Example: As a leader, you are the role model for your employees. Live and breathe the purpose of your organization in your own actions and behaviors. Demonstrate authenticity, passion, and commitment to the “why” behind your work. When your employees see your genuine belief in the purpose, it can inspire them to embrace it as well.
• Solicit Feedback: Encourage open and honest feedback from your employees about their perceptions of the purpose and how it aligns with their work. Listen to their concerns, suggestions, and ideas, and take action on their feedback when possible. This shows that you value their input and are committed to continuously improving the connection between their work and the purpose of the organization.

In conclusion, helping your employees embrace the “why” behind your work is crucial to fostering a motivated and engaged workforce. When your employees understand and connect with the purpose of your organization, they are more likely to bring their best selves to work.