One of the main reasons I returned to school to pursue studies in business was the lack of care and respect that is displayed in the business world. I never could understand why the statement "Don't take it personal, this is business" literally gets under my skin. In this paper, I will discuss and give examples why it is imperative that people in leadership and management have more than just business shrewdness but are in touch with people in the workplace and society as a whole.
Is Business really a Business?.
The definition of business is "the buying and selling of goods and services".1 I believe that all businesses are providing a service. The root word of service is to serve. When you serve someone, you are helping someone. I used an elementary definition to illustrate how simple business is but with our mind set society tend to complicate it. .
"This is a business"- is it really a business? On the other hand, is it a phrase that is used to show one's narrow mindset or inability to be flexible; it is sometimes used to echo professionalism and what is acceptable or not. Who sets the standard? I can name companies where I have received excellent service. Personally, excellent service is synonymous with their name, for example, Four Points Sheraton Hotel, Southwest Airlines, and Home Depot. What makes them different from others? They value the people they are providing the service to and the employees of these companies love their jobs. .
Employees Are What They See and Hear.
Management and leaders have the responsibility to not only oversee the operation but also set the tone or atmosphere of the workplace. I remember my first team meeting with my Mary Kay Director and group. It was very uplifting. Before the meeting, she would play an upbeat song everyone would clap and dance because they were excited to talk about the previous week and how successful it was. After every meeting, I felt as though I could sell a thousand dollars worth of product.