Shifting the Focus: From Engagement to Meaningful Experiences in Leadership

For decades, the pursuit of high employee engagement has been a cornerstone of organizational success. Yet, despite concerted efforts, global engagement rates continue to decline. At Brivia, we advocate for a fundamental shift in perspective: from engagement as the primary metric to meaningful experiences as the driving force behind optimal performance.??

?Meaning, we argue, is the catalyst that activates the four pillars of optimal performance: focus, energy, commitment, and effort. Unlike engagement, which is measured retrospectively, meaning represents a proactive approach to nurturing a fulfilling work environment.?

?Leaders must recognize that meaningful experiences stem from the alignment of individuals' needs, values, goals, and strengths within the workplace. By understanding and responding to these core elements (the CORE 4), leaders can create a culture that fosters purpose and fulfillment.?

?To effectively tune into employees' experiences, leaders should embark on a journey of introspection, understanding their own CORE 4. This self-awareness lays the foundation for meaningful dialogue with team members. Equipped with the necessary communication and relational skills, leaders can engage in one-on-one sessions that delve into what truly matters to each individual.?

?Tools like the Preferred Leadership Profile and the Key Performance Motivator Scale can facilitate these conversations, providing insights into employees' intrinsic motivations. By aligning organizational objectives with employees' CORE 4, leaders can create opportunities for meaningful experiences that resonate with their values, goals, and strengths.?

?The recent upheavals brought about by the pandemic have underscored the importance of meaningful work. Employees are no longer satisfied with merely clocking in and out — they want roles that provide them with a sense of purpose and fulfillment.??

?Traditional engagement surveys fall short in capturing the essence of what truly drives optimal performance. By prioritizing meaningful experiences and adopting tools to measure meaning directly, organizations can cultivate a more engaged, motivated, and fulfilled workforce. It's time for leaders to shift their focus from engagement to meaningful experiences and chart a course toward a brighter future.?

?To learn more about Brivia’s approach for elevating employee experiences and strengthening a culture of optimal human functioning, check out our M3 (Most Meaningful Measures) tool.?

? Stephen de Groot is President and CoFounder at Brivia. He is the author of Responsive Leadership (SAGE, 2016) and Getting to Better: A New Model for Elevating Human Potential at Work and in Life (Fall, 2024). To learn more about Stephen, his work and the Brivia approach click HERE.?