Want to realize better returns? Yes? Then you need to leverage your greatest asset – human capital – your people. If you don’t know it already, the term human capital is the current “buzz word” describing the people who work for/with you. Making an investment in people can deliver amazing results. The proof is out there, books have been written, research has been done and we are paying motivational speakers big bucks $$$$ to tell us how important the people are to our business success. Yet so few organizations make investing in their people a top priority…why do you think that is? Think about it for a minute. What are the first line item to get cut when dollars are scarce? For many organizations those are line items that support their human resources, everything from training and professional development lines to ...

For two decades I have consulted and advised CEOs, Executive Directors, Owners, Leadership Teams, and Boards of Directors. What I’ve learned is that many leaders think it is just too hard to take on the “people” part of the equation. They would much prefer to deal with the finances than the people. If human resources does not rank equal to the finance discussions going on in your board room then chances are that you are not leveraging your greatest asset – your people. Investing in human capital may provide your greatest returns. Not just short term returns but long-term returns that will significantly enhance the bottom line.

So how do you invest in your people? That answer is as unique as your mission but there are a few common denominators. Remember the Five Cs of Investing in Your People: Connect, Communicate, Contribute, Character and Celebrate.

CONNECT: People are relational and they want to feel connected … connected to the company, the people they work with and a cause bigger than themselves. Clearly define and articulate your business’s mission and vision to help people connect in a deep and meaningful way.

COMMUNICATE: People want to know what is going on and to feel genuinely heard. All forms of communication are important; written, verbal, nonverbal, formal, informal, electronic, generational, cultural, social, etc. Align your organization’s values with your hiring process as the first step to communicating with your employees.

CONTRIBUTION: People want to feel like they are making a contribution, making a difference and adding value through their work. Provide the necessary training, support and resources for your employees to be successful and drive the success of your company. Recognize small and large contributions on a regular basis.

CHARACTER: The character of the people who work for/with you will make or break your organization. Recruit, hire, evaluate, reward, discipline and terminate based on your organization’s values. Clearly articulate and live by your values and this will attract the people with the character you need to move your business to the next level.

CELEBRATE: Life is short and most employees spend as much time at work as they do at home. Help your employees find satisfaction and happiness at work. Recognize those small and large contributions by celebrating. Allocate resources to support the celebrations. Build a “cup runneth over” culture and watch your bottom line soar!

By Linda Hyden: Management Consultant / Small Business Coach