Intellectual capital is an issue that is top of mind for many CEOs today. Why? Because we are finally starting to realize the direct impact of human capital to profitability and ultimately shareholder value.The 7th annual conference on "Business and Consciousness", which I recently attended, delved deeply into how people and profit can come together. This was my second time at this conference, where some of the world's most noted leaders on change management, leadership and corporate culture gather to share their insights on the latest evolution of the business model. This year the focus was on a model called the triple bottom line - people, profit, planet. Several keynote speakers were CEO's (now known as Chief Evolutionary Officers) of billion-dollar corporations who were sharing their story on the importance of creating a workplace environment which balances in tandem its people, processes and technology.
Since September 11th where terrorism wounded the epicentre of the financial world, our perspective of "what's real" has shifted, and so too has the level of the importance we place on having the balance between work and life.
What we have realized is that it is no longer possible to shift by simply reading something or understanding a new paradigm of thinking. Rather what's needed is for people and companies to have their beliefs and values in line with their actions or the doing part, so that they can thrive and companies can make money.
We are searching for new and powerful ways to work and live our lives.
The old business model of "I Win" and "You Lose" is transforming into a philosophy of integration and collaboration, leading to a "Win/Win" model.
One of the trends discussed was surrounding truth telling and the lack of it between employers, employees, customers, and suppliers. It can put us into a vicious cycle that is serving none of us.
We are entering a time where radical honesty may be necessary to poke and provoke corporations into a consciousness and truthfulness that sets the stage for real change - then the hard work begins towards the desired culture.
Notably, the responsibility must be shared by willing parties; between employers and employees and extend to customers and suppliers. Once we shift who we are individually and collectively, what we will notice is that so too does the world around us.
What are the rewards of being conscious and successful with the triple bottom line? I challenge individuals and employers to take this courageous step of focusing on the bigger picture of corporate cultural transformation for the greater good. As you notice the changes happening, you might just be surprised at how far reaching the rewards can be.
HAVE A QUESTION OR CONCERN ABOUT YOUR CAREER?
Write to: Pamela Ruebusch at pamela@tsigroup.com