The AMA Approach for Aligned Purpose, Behaviours, and Social Responsibility
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In today’s fast-paced corporate world, the alignment of employee values, company culture and social responsibility has become a key point for organisational success. At AMA, we have discovered that combining these elements fosters a thriving, purpose-driven environment. Let’s dive into the science behind it all…
Bridging Beliefs and Behaviours
Understanding a company’s vision and long-term goals is crucial for employee engagement. When an organisation’s core behaviours resonate with personal values, it creates a powerful unity. This alignment is not just about feeling good – it’s backed by science. Findings by Deci & Ryan’s 1985 study emphasize the importance of addressing workers’ psychological needs for enhanced wellbeing and improved outcomes.
Misalignment of values can also lead to significant challenges. As highlighted in Forbes by psychologist Mark Travers, ‘misalignment burnout’ occurs when employees consistently engage in activities that contradict their long-term values. This disconnect not only impacts mental health but also reduces productivity and impairs problem-solving skills and team dynamics.
Innovation: A catalyst for well-being
Our commitment to innovation isn’t just about staying competitive – it’s a key driver of employee well-being. Recent studies have shown that workplace innovation and well-being are interdependent. Improving workplace innovation has proven more successful in improving well-being than focusing on individual coping behaviours (Pot, F.D 2017).
The power of shared alignment
A shared sense of alignment in the workplace correlates strongly with superior performance. When teams have a clear, expressed shared purpose that resonates both professionally and personally, it leads to improved outcomes. As Straw et al. (2013) have found, it’s about ‘Ensuring that every person understands their role in making the vision happen’. There is an extensive body of scientific research which highlights the high correlation with superior performance in the workplace, and how most executives know their businesses should be aligned (Trevor & Varcoe, 2017).
Social responsibility: More than just good deeds
Our participation in social responsibility initiatives goes beyond community involvement and environmental sustainability – it is a core part of our identity. A recent study of 423 employees revealed a significant positive influence of social responsibility on employee well-being (Bocean et al., 2022). Moreover, corporate social responsibility has been linked to increased self-esteem among employees as they take pride in being part of an organisation that contributes to meaningful causes (Glavas, A., 2016).
Ethical standards: The foundation of trust
Our commitment to maintaining ethical standards – including honesty, fairness, and transparency – is strong. This commitment creates a psychologically safe environment where employees feel comfortable raising concerns, expressing ideas, and just in general to speak up. In such an environment, as highlighted by a recent Harvard Business Review article, team members are more engaged and motivated, and make better decisions if their environment feels psychologically safe.
Psychologist Kirsty Gardiner highlights that organisations prioritising integrity are more likely to achieve long term success and sustain this success. When leaders embody the values and behaviours they expect from others, it inspires trust and credibility. Research findings show that in environments where honesty is prioritised, workers experience less stress related to ethical dilemmas (Prottas, 2008). Furthermore, employees in companies committed to ethical standards show greater job satisfaction and commitment to their organisation (Davis & Rothsteni, 2006).
Conclusion: A Holistic Approach to Workplace Well-being
At AMA, we‘re all about creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and connected to something bigger than themselves. By aligning our beliefs with our actions and prioritising social responsibility, we can build a community where innovation flourishes and everyone’s well-being can thrive.
When we work together towards common goals with integrity and purpose, we all win! Let’s continue to redefine what it means to be a responsible and innovative organisation and make a positive impact on our employees, clients, and the world around us!