What Australian Businesses and Leaders can learn from Best Workplaces in UK

In a recent article (June 2010) printed in Best Workplaces in UK, it is clear that the compelling reasons why some workplaces in the UK rank as being first class is something to take note of. Employees from companies such as Baringa Partners, Impact International, Novo Nordisk, Beaverbooks the Jewellers, McDonald’s Restaurants UK, and Danone Ltd, say the things that make their company great to work for are because they provide ‘great pro bono workplace opportunities” the fact that “the company interacts with its stakeholders in an ethical manner” at least once a month they leave “early on a Friday and breakfast is provided daily” that the firm is very good at making adjustments for disabled employees” that “working there has given them an extra boost to stretch themselves” a bit further” and that “senior management expects you to challenge their opinions” I was also impressed with one firm that offers IT tech support to employees who work from home. Now that surely is a bonus especially when people are used to having their IT problems solved by an internal department.

But what really struck a chord with me was that there was one recurring theme throughout the article. And that is that in order for all of the above to take place, trusting the employees to do their job and do to the best of their potential while supporting others and themselves is still the most important focus to concentrate on. Helping them be the best they can. In other words, achievement is really about what we do ourselves, but leadership is about what we can make others do. Think about it, for a minute. Is this something you do at work?

Take Beaverbooks for example, a Jewellery business in UK, states that it “keeps employees up to date with the financial performance of the business either face to face or via a dvd.” One employee also states “ You feel trusted and part of the business because you are given information on how the business is doing”( financially).

Guess it would be a great place to work, huh?

Over the past 6 months the clients I have worked with that stand out from the crowd are those that:

• Take time to pause, reflect and re consider their direction and results and make small adjustments all along the way rather than major overhauls.
• Reviewing their business plan in conjunction with their people’s personal development plan to ensure people are able to meet the challenges and demands that are placed on them.
• Blending Gen XYZ with key skills of Gen ABC – Authentic, Buoyant, Collaborative.
• Ask people in new areas to discuss the wins and challenges of “Their First 100 Days” in the new role so that others see and understand what they are working on.
• Clearing out the clutter of workplaces and allowing people to create spaces that are responsible for.
• Getting clear on processes or policies that are obsolete and only requesting data and information that will be used and relevant.

The question is what are organisations doing here in Australia that creates exemplary communication and opportunity. What have you seen or done that has contributed to the development of your business, profit and happiness at work? Alternatively, can you name another company in Australia that stands out from the crowd.

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