The notion that “Human capital – is the only capital that really matters” is a sentiment I’ve often encountered. However, I find myself in strong disagreement with this statement. The underlying concern arises when we begin to view humans merely as a form of capital, as it fundamentally shifts our approach.
Drawing from the teachings of finance, we understand that when capital is invested it should yield returns that far surpass the initial investment. This is the essence of business. Naturally, any successful enterprise relies on its people to operate and it’s inconceivable for a CEO to single-handedly manage an entire business without the contributions of dedicated teams. Yet these individuals come with their own distinct aspirations, ambitions, and life objectives. A true leader must be acutely aware of this reality.
But what motivates someone to join my organization? Is it solely the salary? There are countless other companies that might offer more lucrative compensation packages. Is it about respect? There might be larger corporations where one could garner greater respect. So the question arises: how does one attract and more importantly, retain the right talent? How does one continuously fuel their motivation? The answer lies in transparency, the sharing of experiences and knowledge, and the empowerment to lead without apprehension. It’s about enabling them to pursue their aspirations and ambitions through a supportive environment.
Normally, I don’t feel comfortable talking about my own actions, as it can come across as self-important. However, considering the context of this article and the request to outline my approach, I’d be modestly willing to share a few principles that I keep in mind.
Throughout my journey, I have endeavoured to facilitate the growth of the individuals who collaborate with me. Even if circumstances dictate that they should move on from my own company to pursue loftier objectives in life, I wholeheartedly encourage it. Mandating that someone work solely to fulfil my goals and targets would ultimately breed discontent, dampen motivation, and erode productivity. While we can coerce someone to conform to our directives, if we can instead demonstrate the transformative potential of their actions, they will naturally engage with a higher level of commitment and excellence. In moments of crisis, I don’t hand my team ready-made solutions; I illuminate the pathway to discovering solutions.
The cornerstone of a harmonious workplace, in my view, is striking the right balance between the company’s interests and the well-being of its employees. My dedication to the welfare of others goes beyond mere words. I don’t perceive them as mere capital. To me, every individual is a human being with their own dreams and aspirations. My mission centres on aligning their personal goals with those of the company, forging a shared journey toward growth and accomplishment.