Greatest Asset (Our Driving Force Is Our People)

As I was cruising down the interstate this week, a striking company slogan emblazoned on the side of a passing truck grabbed my attention: "Our Driving Force Is Our People." Undoubtedly, it's a catchy slogan for a trucking company, but it got me pondering – could this statement hold true for virtually any kind of business or organization out there? Think about it for a moment: Without the driving force of dedicated individuals, where would any organization be in terms of generating innovative ideas, adapting to changing circumstances, and consistently achieving its goals?

So, here's a question for you: How do you ensure your organization acknowledges the importance of its people in a way that aligns with its mission and values? What's your driving force when it comes to human resources?

Flashback to my undergraduate days when I was an active member of a student chapter of ASPA, the American Society for Personnel Administration. Today, this professional association is known as SHRM, the Society for Human Resource Management. Over 20 years ago, when I first moved to Florida, I was active in (and had the privilege in 1998 of serving as President of) my local chapter of ASTD. It stood for the American Society for Training & Development; since renamed as ATD, the Association for Talent Development.

Consider the universally applicable truth that's remained steadfast amidst all these rebrandings and transformations: an organization's most valuable asset continues to be its people. Whether your organization is a sprawling multinational corporation or a one-person business venture, the majority of your expenses – typically around 70%, nearly three-quarters of your total revenue – are attributed to the human capital, encompassing salaries and benefits. This financial outlay doesn't even account for the behind-the-scenes work of recruitment, handling both voluntary and involuntary terminations, or investing in training and development programs.

How does your organization prioritize and invest in its greatest asset – its people – on a day-to-day basis? Can you identify any specific strategies or initiatives that have yielded remarkable results in enhancing your team's productivity and satisfaction?

Regardless of the product or service your organization offers, always remember the imperative of nurturing your greatest asset – your people – each and every day. After all, as the thought-provoking slogan on that truck reminds us:

Isn't Your Driving Force Your People?

We'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments. And don't forget to share this article with a colleague who might benefit from these insights – together, we can drive forward toward a brighter and more people-centric future in the world of business and beyond.