Can an organization be inspiring?

An inspiring organization has radiance. It has an attractive effect on customers, employees, suppliers and others. With its inspiring effect, it gives people a reason to say something positive about it. Something that many organizations wish they had.

Often, radiance is linked to expectations. Expectations are linked to share price Share price is linked decisions of (e.g. activist) investors. Investor influence can be linked to the fate of the organization....

What are the biggest levers for radiance?

Purpose and Vision: The American automaker dedicated to the electrification of mobility clearly demonstrates. Coupled with entrepreneurship, purpose and vision caused the share price to rise to the (irrationally) unreasonable.

Leadership qualities: Organizations where leaders shine with integrity, authenticity, and a genuine commitment to the company's values attract talent. A small company is such an example: SKS Kinkel manufactures door intercoms, among other things. For the managing director it is all about trust and appreciation. She exemplifies it and expects it from the executives. Unlike other organizations, she has no problems retaining or finding talent. Word gets around about a positive culture. And certainly performance is expected from employees.

Ownership and Self-reliance: W. L. Gore & Associates is a good example. Employees have an environment that empowers individuals to take responsibility for their work. For example, one employee shared with me that after consulting with two other colleagues, he decided to implement a small booth at a trade show that was new to the organization. If such decisions cannot be made by the individual, no one in the organization will take the initiative.

Recognition and Appreciation: There are companies that use a big bell to celebrate successes of individuals and teams. E.g. when a big customer order comes in. E.g. when the highlights of the last week are celebrated in the regular meeting. The bell becomes a symbol for recognition and appreciation. But it also works without the bell. At Bayer AG, an online system of thank-you and "thumbs up" cards is used, where employees visibly give recognition and appreciation to each other and to colleagues. By the way, with cheer44.com you can also anchor this in your organization.

Continuous Learning and Growth: Ms. Horstmeier (BMW) said it the other day at futurework23. Only employees who are retiring in the next 12 months can probably do without learning (for the job). For everyone else it is a must. Yet learning is something very individual. It often feeds on practical experience. Support and feedback from managers or colleagues is very helpful when it comes to creating an environment for Continuous Learning and Growth.

These are just a few examples. Sources of radiance could also be in collaboration and teamwork, social impact and corporate social responsibility, storytelling and communication, flexibility and adaptability, work-life balance and well-being such as mental health, and more.

Where do you think your organization has the most radiance?