Are Your People Really Your Priority? Balancing Humanity with Productivity in Leadership
As leaders, it’s easy to say, “Our people are our greatest asset.” It’s a popular mantra, echoed in mission statements and team meetings alike. But when we take a closer look—when we move beyond words and into action—are people truly being treated as the top priority? Or is the pursuit of productivity and organizational goals overshadowing the well-being and development of the individuals who make those goals possible?
This isn’t a simple question, but it’s one every leader should ask themselves regularly. Why? Because success is a balancing act, and the strongest organizations thrive when people and productivity are treated not as opposing forces, but as interconnected priorities.
The Reality Check: Are People Really First?
Let’s start with some self-reflection. Consider:
- Do your daily actions align with the belief that people are your top priority, or is the pressure to deliver results taking precedence?
- Are your conversations with team members focused on their growth, well-being, and engagement, or are they primarily about deadlines and deliverables?
- When challenges arise, do you prioritize quick fixes, or do you invest time in understanding and addressing the root causes, even if it’s uncomfortable?
It’s not uncommon for leaders to think they’re putting people first, only to discover that their behaviours or the systems in place send a different message. This isn’t about assigning blame; it’s about recognizing blind spots and embracing the opportunity to recalibrate.
The Cost of Neglecting People
When people become an afterthought, organizations suffer. Here’s how:
- Burnout and Attrition: Employees who feel undervalued or overworked are more likely to disengage or leave. High turnover not only impacts morale but also drains resources.
- Reduced Innovation: A culture that prioritizes output over people discourages creativity and risk-taking, as individuals fear mistakes or judgment.
- Eroded Trust: When actions don’t match words, trust is eroded. And without trust, teams struggle to communicate, collaborate, and perform.
In contrast, prioritizing people can lead to thriving workplaces where individuals feel seen, heard, and empowered. This doesn’t mean productivity takes a backseat—it means productivity is fuelled by engaged, motivated, and supported individuals.
Balancing People and Productivity
How can leaders strike the right balance? Here are some actionable steps to get started:
- Redefine Success: Shift your perspective to see people and productivity as interconnected. A thriving, well-supported team naturally delivers results.
- Be Present and Listen: Make time for real, meaningful conversations with your team members. Ask about their challenges, goals, and well-being. Listen—not just to respond, but to understand.
- Create a Culture of Trust: Demonstrate consistency between your words and actions. Encourage transparency, celebrate wins, and address failures constructively.
- Build Flexibility Into Systems: Recognize that rigid goals and systems can stifle people. Provide opportunities for autonomy, creativity, and adaptability.
- Invest in Growth: Show your people that they matter by supporting their development. This could mean training programs, mentorship, or creating pathways for career advancement.
- Check In with Yourself: Reflect on your own habits as a leader. Are you modelling the values and priorities you want your team to embrace?
The Payoff: Why People-First Leadership Works
Putting people first isn’t just the “right thing to do”—it’s a strategic advantage. Teams that feel valued and supported are more loyal, engaged, and innovative. Productivity becomes a natural byproduct of a strong, people-centred culture.
Here’s the challenge: Take a hard look at your leadership approach. Are your people really your priority? If not, how can you begin to shift? It doesn’t have to be an overhaul, but even small, intentional changes can create powerful ripple effects.
When you lead with humanity, you not only elevate your team—you elevate your organization as a whole. Because at the end of the day, goals are important, but it’s the people who make them achievable.
If you would like to assess your current or develop people-first leadership skills please reach out to me at elizabethdenniss@bigpond.com or on 0456728961. I provide in person and online leadership coaching and development sessions. I also offer leadership development through Equine Informed Awareness at Rainbow Ridge Farm.