You Matter: How To Cultivate Significance at Work (and Why You Need To)
In an epoch of work defined by disengagement and a pervasive sense of disconnect, the concept of “mattering” is a critical element in fostering thriving workplaces. At the We Are Human Leaders podcast we sat down again with our first ever repeat guest Zach Mercurio, researcher, speaker, and author of "The Power of Mattering: How Leaders can Create a Culture of Significance," to delve into this fundamental human need. And learn how leaders can cultivate powerful cultures of mattering and significance – and why it’s imperative that they do.
Why does mattering matter?
The conversation illuminates a stark reality: despite significant investment in employee engagement initiatives, feelings of being unseen, unheard, and unvalued are on the rise. Zach challenges leaders to move beyond superficial engagement strategies and address the core human need to matter.
“Ultimately, the power of mattering lies in its ability to reconnect people to their deepest sense of purpose and value.”
He argues that mattering isn't just a nice-to-have; it's a primal instinct, deeply rooted in our need for connection and survival. "It's our most primal reflex as human beings. In fact, you sought to matter to someone before you sought to eat food."
This warm, insight-packed podcast conversation explores the practical implications of mattering, particularly in the context of work. As Zach notes, when people feel significant, they're more likely to be motivated, resilient, and engaged.
Conversely, a lack of mattering can lead to withdrawal, quiet quitting, or even disruptive behaviors as individuals desperately seek recognition.
What can leaders do to drive a culture of mattering?
Here were some of the key takeaways from the conversation:
Prioritize mattering as a basic human need: Recognize that feeling valued and needed is essential for employee well-being and performance.
Focus on interpersonal connection: Move beyond programmatic solutions and cultivate genuine, meaningful interactions.
Show indisputable evidence of significance: Help employees see the direct impact of their work and how it contributes to something larger.
Affirm unique gifts and perspectives: Acknowledge and value the individual strengths, purpose, perspective, and wisdom that each person brings to the table.
Create a culture of "If it wasn't for you…": Explicitly express appreciation for the contributions of team members and their indispensable role.
How can you scale mattering in your organization?
Zach emphasizes that showing people they matter is an "interpersonal skill." He outlines the importance of helping individuals understand that you need them. To scale this, he shares an example of a travel agency that encourages leaders to reflect on moments they felt they mattered most. He emphasizes, "Mattering becomes just this implicit way of being around here. It goes from being something we're trying to achieve to being just the way we operate."
Ultimately, the power of mattering lies in its ability to reconnect people to their deepest sense of purpose and value. It's about creating workplaces where individuals feel seen, heard, and genuinely appreciated for their unique contributions. By prioritizing mattering, leaders can unlock the full potential of their teams and build organizations that thrive on connection, significance, and shared purpose.
Listen wherever you get your podcasts right now, or delve into this incredible conversation with Zach right here.
