Treating People Like People

By Mark Jepperson

If we treat people as people there is no betrayal of the human spirit. This simple forward focus on relationships can release the immense human potential in your organization.

That’s so obvious I can skip this article, right?

No, you shouldn’t.

Why, you may ask? It is simple. If you don’t work at this kind of leadership you will lead from the past. Confused? Read on.

If we treat people as people there is no betrayal of the human spirit. This simple forward focus on relationships can release the immense human potential in your organization. When people feel cared about and respected, they return kindness, loyalty, dedication, efficiency and higher levels of energy because they tend to return the care that was given to them.

But businesses, as they should, focus on performance, schedule and quality. That isn’t the problem. It is how businesses focus on performance, schedule and quality. If we become distracted by an excessive focus on profit, persuaded by a loud customer, disengage with supplier issues, or only address the problem du jour -- these pressure almost automatically drive individuals to revert to old ways of being, old ways of managing, and choices to take the quick route instead of the authentic leadership route that guides people to the future.

But don’t worry if you slip into this kind of management, because people have an immense capacity to forgive, if the person leading shows humanity, humility and asks for help in a way that treats people like, well, people. These are the soft skills that are required to create a good leader, and as it is often said: “It is the soft stuff that is the hard stuff.”

There are some nuts and bolts actions you can take to help yourself, such as:

Worry Tree Alignment workshops and exercises
Incorporating new inclusion based models
Reviewing your performance appraisal system for alignment
Utilizing the tools of personal transformation to shift your focus back to people (typically authentic behaviors and coaching)

So, what kind of leader are you? Do you treat people like people?

Strategy1 experienced consultants can help you and your team learn the skills and techniques to treat people like people. When people feel valued, safe, included and respected they will help you create a high performing organization.

As you read through this article, what scenario or challenge facing your company came to mind?
Contact Mark Jepperson to discuss your situation.