by Jason Richmond, CEO and Chief Culture Officer at Ideal Outcomes, Inc.
The law of attraction is an ancient concept which asserts that our life is our own creation. It rests on two foundational behaviors: mindset and action with intent. The idea is that you create a magnetic pull between you and what you desire in life when you pursue it intently.
As Winston Churchill said, “You create your own universe as you go along.”
The Force of Magnetism in Business
Have you noticed how some organizations have a steady stream of applicants seeking employment and succeed in retaining them for years? In contrast, others struggle with regular turnover and finding candidates to fill open positions.
The former companies are what we call magnetic workplaces—environments where employees love to work, and customers flock to do business. They attract people by offering them a compelling vision, a sense of belonging, and a place where they can pursue their potential and live their lives to the fullest.
Magnetic employers’ reward comes in the form of engaged teams that are involved in, enthusiastic about, and committed to their workplace, which is how Gallup defines employee engagement.
Qualities of Businesses that Exude Magnetism
Let’s consider some characteristics of magnetic workplaces to which employees will gravitate:
Leaders Who Draw People In
Magnetic leaders display integrity, authenticity, and transparency—there’s a steady ebb and flow between their inner reflection and external action. They say what they do and do what they say. They don’t shy away from acknowledging mistakes and responding to complaints and concerns. And they have the courage to reengage with their people once they’ve gained new awareness or made an important decision.
These leaders are also aware of how their attitude impacts those around them. They know that when they lead with optimism and humility, they create positive ripples. Equally, when they’re seen to be overwhelmed, frustrated, or angry, they create negative currents. By making positivity a habit, they set an example for others which contributes to nurturing a positive work environment.
Optimism is a happiness magnet. If you stay positive, good things and good people will be drawn to you.” – Mary Lou Retton, 1984 Olympic Gymnastics Gold Medalist.
A Mission that Attracts Similarly-Minded Candidates
People want to work for companies whose leadership knows where they’re going and exudes a passion about getting there. They’re clear about what they stand for and why, and they thread this message through everything from internal communication styles and recruitment processes to marketing materials.
And they back up these words and claims with results and accomplishments: think positive employee net promotor scores, meaningful contributions to their community, tangible progress on diversity and inclusion, and quantifiable ESG achievements.
The leaders of magnetic companies know that by staying true to their company’s mission, they’ll be more likely to attract similarly minded candidates who are willing to buy into and carry on that mission through their work.
Avenues for Advancement
High quality employees want to contribute to their company’s growth, but they want to grow personally, too. They’re drawn to companies where they see opportunity to develop their hard and soft skills and reach their full potential.
According to the World Economic Forum Future of Jobs Report 2023, 44% of workers’ skills will be disrupted in the next five years, and six in ten workers will require training before 2027. These are some of the reasons today’s most attractive employers recognize that upskilling is a sound strategy to remain adaptive, manage any talent shortfalls, and ensure employees are equipped to navigate emerging technologies impacting their industry.
Upskilling opportunities are available from a spectrum of resources, from free or low-cost online platforms to trainer-led courses. Some of today’s forward-thinking companies even allow their employees to rotate in and out of key positions throughout the organization or offer them a chance to work in other locations.
A Focus on Non-Financial Rewards
Good people expect not just a competitive salary but also recognition and appreciation for performance and contributions. But magnetic employers don’t assume they know all the details: perks like fitness classes or ergonomic desks aren’t necessarily the answer. Sometimes it’s as simple as asking your employees how they prefer to be recognized.
People’s preferences and perspectives are diverse and may evolve as they grow and change. People are dynamic, and as their needs and wants evolve, so should the workplace.
What Magnetic Signals is Your Business Sending Out?
An engaging, magnetic workplace draws people in and inspires employees to contribute to something larger than themselves, ultimately instilling a sense of purpose in their work.
In the everyday commotion of running a business, it’s easy to overlook the needs of your greatest asset: your employees. What are you doing to keep them motivated and enthusiastic about their role? Do you have a workplace culture where they feel a sense of belonging? Are your workers committed to doing what it takes to drive the business forward?
To earn your employees’ hearts and minds and create an engaged workforce that builds a solid foundation for long-term success, you need to take the time to assess whether your people are genuinely engaged. Get started here.