In this April 2007 article, Chris Nel, addresses the vacuum of purpose in large organizations and raises the point that when the question of leadership comes up professionals and managers have a tendency to look outward and upward for direction.
He cites Abraham Maslow saying that, “In the absence of a strong sense of shared purpose, self-interest (i.e. anything from survival to self-actualization) prevails in decision making.” I’d say that just about sums up the current economic situation.
He closes the article with words of wisdom that are extremely relevant today for all business leaders. “I’m not suggesting we should align people with fear… Far more powerful and enduring is to align people with a purpose beyond profit. A hope that their endeavours at work are meaningful in the big scheme of things.”
Care to share? What are your stories and comments on purpose beyond profit?
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