Keeping employees engaged and committed is crucial. Organizations face the challenge of retaining their top talent while enhancing productivity. Leaders and HR professionals must understand the diverse needs of a multigenerational workforce and adapt to the quickly changing talent landscape. Young employees often prioritize a sense of purpose over job security, and there is a dramatic shift in power dynamics between employees and employers. As a result, organizations are implementing various policies and programs, including recognition and reward strategies and inclusion and diversity initiatives, to keep their workforce engaged and thriving.
At the recent SHRM Talent Summit, Sunil Suresh, the founder of Stanley Lifestyles, shared his journey and valuable insights on building a committed workforce. His story is inspiring and packed with powerful tips for people managers and HR leaders.
Sunil Suresh's journey started in a small car garage in Bangalore. At 17, he began working as a packing supervisor at a distillery. "I never had the mindset of an employee. I was more interested in understanding the work and finding better ways to do it," he said. This curiosity and drive set the stage for his future success.
After working in various industries, including leather garment manufacturing, Suresh saw a gap in the Indian market for luxury products. "There was a lot of consumption available for luxury products in this country," he noted. With just 4 lakh rupees, he started Stanley Lifestyles, initially focusing on automotive seating before expanding into furniture.
Building a Committed Workforce
He believes true commitment comes from a deep understanding and passion for the work. "You should not have an employee mentality. You should have an 'I am going to be an employer' mentality," he advised.
Suresh believes in leading by example, working closely with his team, and creating an environment of mutual respect and learning. "I lead from the front. I like to work in the facility," he said. This hands-on approach has created a strong loyalty among his employees, many of whom have returned to the company after exploring other opportunities.
Learning from Global Talent
Stanley Lifestyles has also benefited from leveraging global talent. Suresh shared how the company employs European designers and experts who bring a wealth of knowledge and passion to the team. "We have a very senior designer who is 78 years old and works like a 20-year-old. He is so passionate about his work," Suresh remarked. This blend of local and global talent has enriched the company's culture and enhanced its product offerings.
Why This Matters Today
Building a culture of commitment and enhancing employee engagement is non-negotiable in today’s workforce climate. A disengaged workforce can cost the company heavily and also lower the morale of employees and the company. High turnover rates, increased absenteeism, risks of mass resignations, etc. are serious challenges that must be addressed. As organizations navigate challenging situations, implementing effective strategies is essential for maintaining employee satisfaction and productivity. Suresh's insights provide a roadmap for HR leaders to create a cohesive and inclusive work culture.
Key Takeaways from the SHRM Talent Summit
The SHRM Talent Summit provided a platform for discussing the challenges and opportunities in employee engagement. Suresh highlighted the importance of understanding and addressing employees' unique needs. "You need to romance something. You have to stick to it," he said, emphasizing the need for passion and dedication in any role.
Leadership plays a critical role in building a culture of commitment. Suresh's leadership style, which values transparency, humility, and a hands-on approach, is a model for other leaders. "I have always been extremely humble in terms of where we were brought up," he shared, underscoring the importance of staying grounded and connected to one's roots.
Creating a positive and psychologically safe work environment is essential for building employee engagement. Suresh's approach to leadership and his emphasis on mutual respect and learning have created a supportive and inclusive workplace at Stanley Lifestyles. "We have grown quite large now, and we are doing some fantastic products," he said, highlighting the company's success in building a committed and talented workforce.
Conclusion
The SHRM Talent Summit provided valuable insights into building a culture of commitment and enhancing employee engagement. Sunil Suresh's journey and leadership at Stanley Lifestyles offer practical strategies for HR professionals to create a positive and engaging work environment. Organizations can enhance employee satisfaction and retention by focusing on intentional culture-building, leveraging global talent, and fostering a hands-on leadership style.
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