This article is NOT about Cause Marketing.

I was at the Ellermeyer Connect Breakfast the other morning and Sudhir Chadalavada was talking about how the mix of Capitalism with Democracy has raised our standard of living and innovation but it comes at a price. For businesses, it is all about the capitalism, the bottom-line, profit to shareholders, etcetera. The social quality of democracy is set aside, as companies build on that bottom-line, causes tension in the workforce which relates to less productivity. The disgruntled workforce starts to question why they are there. What are they getting out of the time they spend other than a static paycheck. How has the their quality of life increasing? 

"What's In It For Me" is murmured around the water-cooler.

Savvy business leaders use their compassion with collaboration and activities to involve the work force with social democracy. Maybe it's community beautification projects, or charitable activities. They gain this compassion usually through a tragic event or adversity. Sudhir would like to point out that creating an engaging, inspiring and purposeful work environment is the greatest contribution we can make to the community and to the world.

If you are looking for ideas to increase productivity while building community relations give Blacktop Branding a visit.

Personal transformation allows us to think differently and allows for the paradigm shift to a collaborative environment. When this social democracy is introduced into a strict workplace, employees feel empowered, energized, and the result is increased productivity. They make the common-sense, common practice as the company evolves from shareholder return to stakeholder return. 

What a great way to turn around a disgruntled workforce from a recent layoff schedule, or minimal bonus structure. Get ideas from your employees who are in touch with their community, church or schools. It's a great way to build a lasting bond and help ease their fears of being "next".

What tragic event or adversity did you overcome that changed your management style? How does your company contribute to the growth of your community?

(Photo shot at TRM Manufacturing)