Discontentment is not in the job itself or the company, but in relationships.
Adriana Prates
With hard work and intense dedication, anyone can achieve success, as the distant "American Dream" stated (a strategy from the 1930s to make the population forget the horrors of World War I). Success was understood as power and consumption, or for many, the power of consumption – the more you buy, the higher your status, and the greater your happiness.
It worked so well that it transcended decades and American borders, becoming a kind of Western "ethos." Who here has not been influenced by the belief that "work gives meaning to life"? Here lies the dilemma: if, today, in 2024, we work so much and consume to the same extent, why are dissatisfaction rates so high? Why do over 30% of Brazilians complain of burnout and anxiety, according to the National Association of Occupational Medicine?
Numerous studies attempt to answer this question, but what we have, so far, are clues. They associate dissatisfaction with a characteristic of human essence: relationships. Discontentment is not in the job itself or the company, but in relationships, especially between leaders and subordinates. Professionals don't quit because of the organization, but due to leadership.
A recent study by the Gallup research institute supports this view: over 50% of professionals who resign cite problems with their boss.
The role of leadership is crucial. Identifying individuals with the ability to build healthy relationships and cultures, creating a meaningful work environment, is increasingly important. Ineffective leaders often struggle to guide and motivate their teams, failing to recognize or value contributions, leading to dissatisfaction and a decrease in overall productivity.
On the other hand, management practices that humanize work relationships contribute to the development of increasingly healthy bonds. Leaders who prioritize open and transparent communication, actively listen to concerns, ideas, and opinions, and are available for individual conversations and continuous feedback, make a positive impact.
Recognizing and valuing employees is another characteristic of motivating leadership. Demonstrating appreciation for their contributions and achievements, celebrating individual and collective successes through public praise, reward programs, or other forms of recognition, is a path to follow.
Leading by example is also a trait that not only captivates teams but generates a feeling of respect and admiration. This is particularly crucial when addressing important issues such as the appreciation of diversity and inclusion. Respecting differences is seen in everyday practices by acknowledging the value of diversity and creating ways for everyone to have equal access to opportunities. It is also evident in supporting personal and professional development, understanding that each person is unique in their differences, and together, through collaboration, they can only add value.
Health and quality of relationships
Dasein EMA Partners Brazil believes that without physical and mental health, effective leadership and good relationships are not possible. In addition to meticulous executive recruitment, we offer mentorship programs that provide moments of reflection, learning, and self-discovery. These moments allow leaders a space for free thinking, without judgment, to enhance creativity and meet the needs of their stakeholders.
With nearly three decades of experience in executive recruitment and leadership development, we have achieved excellent results, with a satisfaction rate exceeding 98%. The permanence of professionals in their roles, producing effectively and engaged, all without sacrificing quality of life and relationship quality, is the primary indicator for our sector and our company. It is incredibly satisfying for us to contribute not only to the career growth of an executive but to observe that their life, in its entirety, follows a prosperous path.
For this reason, I emphasize that people's dissatisfaction is not in the job itself or the company but in relationships. To care for relationships, we need to be skillful, meticulous, and inclusive.
Adriana Prates
CEO of Dasein EMA Partners Brazil.
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