Let’s drop the notion of “hybrid workforce”because it continues to put the focus on the where—let’s just talk about “effective or productive workforce”…it’s not about the where it’s about the Who doing the what! (Notice the capital W—this is where the focus needs to be)
Michele Streitmatter
https://www.linkedin.com/in/michele-streitmatterchro
Michele dropped this in the middle of a conversation on LinkedIn about how to handle hybrid workforces (part in the office, part home, and combinations) … and it radically altered the conversation.
Tony Strows (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonystrows/) then followed up with:
I encourage everyone to stop using the term ‘hybrid’ to describe this amazing opportunity to change. Michele Streitmatter, SPHR, I love your view but disagree slightly in that the focus should be Why, then Who. We spend way too much time on the practical problem solving and not enough on reflecting why. I estimate 50% of most employees activity is of no significant value to them or their organization, so start by asking – Why?
Indeed!
Both contributions redirected the conversation in the right direction, focusing on function (value) and letting that drive form rather than the other way around.
Here’s a fast way to begin evaluating the value of work: ask what it contributes for the C.E.O.S.:
- Customers want legendary products, services, and relationships. Do this task deliver that?
- Employees want a fulfilling work environment. Does this task contribute positively to that for me AND others?
- Owners/shareholders want enhanced value, enduring over time. Does this task contribute positively to company results and financials?
- Significant other stakeholders – those interested in long-term relationships like communities – want a spirit of shared responsibility. Does this work demonstrate that responsibility?
Those are starting points. You can easily come up with more questions.
This C.E.O.S. test can be applied at any level of the business and by anyone, anytime!
By Mike Russell
Ongoing thanks to Dr. Michael O’Connor who established the C.E.O.S. concept decades ago
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