Today, the needs of the workforce have become more important than the needs of the organization. Not too long ago, Corporate America’s focus on what was ‘good’ for the company rather than focus on the people and work environment.

Although controversial, the Hawthorne study is an excellent example of focusing on the people in the organization.  In the case, it was the Western Electric plant in Hawthorne, Illinois.

The results of this study indicated the human aspect was most important to the workers.  Employee productivity was not affected or related to the work environment.  Ironically, it was the ‘attention’ that was given to the employees.  The human aspect; in other words, it was the way the employees were treated.

Of the utmost importance; creating a conducive work environment can assist in tapping into the talents of America’s non-traditional (diverse) workforce.  It’s a well known fact, when people are respected and comfortable in their work environment, they are empowered, and when they are empowered, they give of themselves more freely.

In conclusion, a conducive work environment can recruit ‘high’ performers with qualification potential for their organization; thus, having the competitive advantage or just to survive in a global marketplace.

 

Editors Note: {We love hearing your comments! Please post your thoughts, insight, and questions!} For more information regarding the Hawthorne study, surf Google and continue your research.