Top tips to give meaning to the work of your team
The search for meaning at work is at the forefront of the news after a two-year health crisis. More and more workers want to engage in causes that are very important to them and find meaning in the missions that have been given to them.
Although everyone's interpretation of their work's meaning is subjective, there are many implicit stimuli that all employees in a company share. As a result, it is possible to create working conditions where everyone can find meaning in their work.
What does this idea actually mean then? What could lead to a loss of purpose at work? How can one give their employees purpose in their work? The remainder of the article offers clarifications and suggestions.
First of all, the concept of meaning at work is still very individualised. Some people want to make a difference in the world by linking their work to important causes (such as social and/or environmental issues). Here, employees seek a sense of purpose and conviction alignment. Others find meaning in their jobs because they can advance professionally and plan out their futures in the workplace.
In any case, for work to be meaningful, it must satisfy the person doing it, be in line with their interests, allow them to realise their goals, and fully utilise their potential.
As I previously stated, all workers are still exposed to some common stimuli. Therefore, as a manager or employer, it is entirely possible to influence the significance that each individual associates with their work.
Social usefulness, autonomy, opportunities for learning and development, moral rectitude, the quality of relationships, and recognition are the six characteristics that can give work meaning, according to the IRSST study "Meaning of work, mental health at work, and organisational commitment."
The daily activity, importance of the organisation, teamwork, profession, industry of activity, or even the product are likely to provide additional characteristics that give work meaning.
What makes sense in psychology is correlated with an experience that is infused with coherence, consistency, balance, or even completion. This idea is also connected to the meaning of existence. According to this viewpoint, the coherence of a person's expectations, values, and daily actions in their environment with the work they do will determine the meaning of their work.
A person's commitment to the company and his health can be positively or negatively impacted by the meaning he assigns to his work. An employee is more likely to be involved in the company, to be more productive, and to cooperate when he views his work favourably.
In fact, the person performing meaningful work believes it to be of great importance, and as a result, he gives it great value and expends the necessary effort to complete it.
An individual views meaningless work as meaningless. This causes emotional dissonance, a helpless feeling, and a sense of emptiness as well as apathy, boredom, and brownout.