Front Line Obsession: The Path to Employee Retention and Business Success

In the ever-evolving landscape of business, focusing on the front line isn't just a moral imperative; it's a strategic move that pays dividends. I believe in placing our front line team members at the heart of our decisions, creating a workplace where our employees not only thrive but also contribute to the success of our business.

During my tenure at Big Ass Fans, one of the highlights was the eye-opening experience of visiting manufacturing plants where the impact of BAF resonated far beyond their cooling capabilities. It was a common occurrence to witness office employees, who had previously never set foot on the plant floor, making a pilgrimage to witness the transformative effects of Big Ass Fans.

The installation of these cutting-edge fans went beyond mere climate control; it created a bridge between the office and the heart of our operations. Plant workers, who had long toiled in the challenging conditions of manufacturing, found not only relief from the heat but also an unexpected visitor – the previously office-bound colleagues.

Why did it take the installation of 24’ fans to incentivize breaking down the invisible barrier between departments?

Madison Industries, under the leadership of Larry Gies, provides an inspiring example. At Owners' Day in 2023, Larry brought front line workers to the stage, addressing their working conditions candidly, most notably restrooms that didn’t work and a single mother whose own Mom had to quit her job to watch her grandchild so the child's mother wouldn’t get her last “point” resulting in termination. The unfiltered dialogue prompted a profound moment – an eye-opener for CEOs and Plant Managers in attendance. Larry challenged the audience, asking, "Would this fly in your office settings? Why do you let it on the plant floor?" It underscored the need to bridge the gap between leadership and the front line. Larry finished with a quote I will never forget.

“What is the ROI of hugging your Mom?” He is not asking for an ROI on fixing the bathroom. Just do it because it’s the right thing to do.

FLO, as we understand it, starts by dismantling the wall between the office and front line. It involves learning and truly comprehending what matters most to our front line team. Recently, Madison gathered to enhance their front line, seeking inspiration to fortify their culture and advance their mission of making the world safer, healthier, and more productive.

John Stewart with MiddleGround Capital is another leader exemplifying a focus on the front line. In their journey, they’ve visited US-based facilities facing challenges like open-air pavilions, unsafe handling of hot metals, lack of protective equipment, and even absence of basic amenities like bathrooms. Investments in transforming such environments demand time and energy, but the outcomes are transformative.

Upon investing in a facility with subpar conditions:

?? Wages were increased to $15 an hour.

?? Break areas and bathrooms were installed.

?? PPE became mandatory, and safety protocols were introduced.

?? The total recordable injury rate was halved in 2023, and turnover decreased by 20%.

The “RIGHT” thing to do can also be the best financial business decision.

“What’s the ROI of hugging your Mom?”

What do your front line team members want in a job?

1. Safe Working Conditions: Safety is paramount. Front line workers appreciate workplaces that prioritize safety protocols, provide necessary safety equipment, and conduct regular training to prevent accidents.

2. Competitive Compensation: Fair and competitive wages are crucial. Front line employees want to feel that their hard work is acknowledged and rewarded adequately.

3. Clear Communication: Effective communication is essential. Clear instructions, regular updates, and a transparent flow of information contribute to a positive work environment.

4. Recognition and Appreciation: Feeling valued is motivating. Recognition for achievements, whether big or small, fosters a sense of accomplishment and boosts morale.

5. Opportunities for Growth: Front line workers appreciate opportunities for skill development and career advancement. Training programs and paths for promotion are often seen as valuable incentives.

6. Team Collaboration: A positive team environment is significant. Collaboration, mutual support, and a sense of camaraderie contribute to job satisfaction and overall well-being.

7. Work-Life Balance: Balancing work and personal life is crucial. Reasonable working hours, flexibility when needed, and a consideration for personal commitments enhance job satisfaction.

8. Health and Wellness Programs: Programs that support employee well-being, such as health insurance, wellness initiatives, and access to mental health resources, are appreciated.

9. Job Security: Stability is important. Front line workers often seek job security and reassurance about the future of their roles within the company.

10. Respectful Management: Respectful and approachable management is key. Front line employees want to feel heard and respected by their supervisors and company leadership.

Understanding and addressing these factors can contribute to a positive work environment, increased job satisfaction, and improved retention among front line manufacturing employees.

A special shout out Ray Hawkins at Big Ass Fans. This man cares about his people and always pushes leadership to provide the best for them. Keep it up Ray!

The question I pose to every business leader…

"What are you doing to improve the working conditions at your facility?" Creating a working environment your team wants to be in isn't just the right thing to do; it's a competitive advantage. If you don't prioritize it, rest assured your competition will.

ACTION Items

1. Prioritize Safety:

- Regularly assess and improve safety protocols.

- Provide necessary safety equipment and ensure compliance with safety standards.

2. Recognition and Rewards:

- Implement a recognition program for outstanding performance.

- Consider tangible rewards, such as bonuses or incentives, to show appreciation.

3. Address Work-Life Balance:

- Assess workload and schedules to promote a healthy work-life balance.

- Be flexible when possible to accommodate personal commitments.

4. Involve Front Line in Decision-Making:

- Include front line workers in decision-making processes that affect their roles.

- Seek their input on operational changes and improvements.

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-Kevin

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