A Culture of Humanity emphasizes decisions that advance the well-being of today while ensuring long-term prosperity for all stakeholders. This approach creates enduring businesses that thrive over time. Profits are achieved, but they are sustainable and shared over the long term.
When stakeholders come together to build or grow a company, and they believe in its mission, they invest their collective efforts into its success. Stakeholders include employees, their families, vendors, customers, the community, and government — all of whom benefit when the company prospers.
A Culture of Profit focuses on short-term gains — this quarter, this week, or even today — often at the expense of the future. Transactionally focused organizations struggle to prosper or survive long-term.
Why sacrifice long-term potential for short-term gain? When ownership or management prioritizes immediate financial results, stakeholders quickly recognize that their contributions and well-being are undervalued. Decisions are made for short-term profit alone, eroding trust, goodwill, and the very foundation of the business.
To better understand your company’s culture, ask yourself the following questions:
Does the business have a culture of respect and caring?
Does senior management visit locations often and engage with employees, the community, and other stakeholders? Are concerns acknowledged and addressed?
Are discussions focused solely on maximizing short-term profits, or do they consider long-term impacts?
Are business ethics discussed? How are planning and execution integrated into the company’s mission, vision, and values?
Before acting, do you consider the impact on other stakeholders? Do others consider your interests similarly?
Are new ideas welcomed or disregarded? Is diversity of thought encouraged?
Is success shared and celebrated?
How do customers feel when they reach out? Do they experience confidence and reliability?
Do you and your colleagues take pride in your work? Is there joy and passion in your daily efforts?
Are there parts of your work you dread? What improvements would make a meaningful difference, and would the company act on them?
How much do organizational politics influence decisions?
Do you see clear paths for advancement?
What is ownership’s exit strategy? Is there a succession plan in place?
Is ownership reinvesting in the company, employees, and the community?
While choosing an organization built for the long term may seem simple, it’s easy to get distracted by short-term financial results. Avoid being lured by shiny objects that detract from your broader goals.
Consider the culture you’re building or contributing to today. Are you prioritizing sustainable growth, trust, and stakeholder value — or short-term gain? If you’re looking for guidance on creating a Culture of Humanity in your organization, reach out to explore how I can help you build lasting success.
