Our company's purpose – to put people to work, protect our freedoms, and help our clients power and improve the world – is a bold and inspiring purpose. It's a testament to the impact we can make together. To fulfill this purpose, we must first invest in the very foundation of our success: our people.
We often emphasize the importance of delivering exceptional customer experiences. After all, it's how we fulfill our promise to our clients: "We do what we say®." But let’s not forget that extraordinary customer experiences are the result of extraordinary employee experiences.
We’ve entered an era where employees have become consumers of employers. The days of passive job seekers are behind us. Today’s workforce is informed, discerning, and has a wealth of options. They can research companies, compare cultures, and read employee reviews with a few clicks. This means we are competing for talent in a hyper-competitive marketplace. To win, we must offer an employee experience that is as compelling as our products and services.
Engaged and empowered employees are the cornerstone of delivering world-class customer experiences. When our people feel included, valued, supported, and challenged, they bring their best selves to work. They are more innovative, more productive, and more likely to go the extra mile for our customers. This, in turn, strengthens our relationships with clients and drives our business forward.
Our managers play an indispensable role in creating this experience. They are on the frontline directly impacting the day-to-day lives of our employees. However, we need more than just managers; we need leaders. Leaders who inspire, develop, and care. Leaders who prioritize talent, mental health, and well-being. Leaders who look ahead to the future and create opportunities for growth.
Empathy is the cornerstone of effective leadership. It’s about understanding the challenges and aspirations of your team members. It’s about putting yourself in their shoes and supporting their success. When our leaders foster a culture of empathy and support, we create an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered.
I’m excited about the role MYDZExperience is playing in shaping a consistent and exceptional employee experience across our organization. Tools like succession planning, employee profiles, and career development plans are changing the landscape of our talent planning and providing us with valuable insights into our talent pool. This data-driven approach allows us to make informed decisions and create opportunities for growth and development.
By investing in our people, we not only strengthen our company but also contribute to the betterment of our communities. Remember, our employees are the embodiment of our purpose. Let's continue to create a workplace where everyone feels empowered to contribute to our shared success.
Thank you for your dedication and commitment.
Daniel Ross is Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer for Day & Zimmermann, a century-old, family-owned company, with $2.7 billion USD in revenue, specializing in construction & engineering, operations & maintenance, staffing, security and defense for leading corporations and governments around the world. Mr. Ross oversees all of human resources for the D&Z enterprise including talent management, talent acquisition, compensation, diversity & inclusion, labor strategy and organizational development.