What does Investing in People Mean Anyway?
I am a leader who likes to get to the root of problems, not just their symptoms, who likes to have words defined so I can fully understand the meaning and intent behind their use. Often, I say to my colleagues and family members “define that.” It drives most of them nuts, but for me, it takes away the gray area or gaps in my understanding. It helps me start from a point of clarity before I offer a solution, assessment or opinion.
According to Dictonary.com, to invest is “to use, give, or devote (time, talent, etc.), as for a purpose or to achieve something.” As you might invest time in a garden to take in its beauty or consume its vegetables, or as you might invest in real estate to create more income, you invest in people to gain something; that something is to make them better people. Notice I did not say increase productivity or overcome an entrenched enemy occupying a hilltop. No, the purpose behind this investment of your time, talent, etc. is to make a difference in the lives of others.
This means you invest your personal time as a leader to focus on your people by engaging with them daily, counseling or coaching and growing them and helping them to attain their goals and identify and live out their passions. You develop and manage organizational operations and processes which are people-centric, meaning they are designed and adjusted around people not with people as the afterthought. You never assume the risk of caring for and investing in people. It remains a personal and organizational priority. You develop and espouse a people-centric mindset by talking about it constantly and setting a personal example. You invest time in getting to know your people and their families praising and recognizing them for their incredible feats. From this approach, finance, marketing, product development and profitability will work out. Rifle qualification, battle drill proficiency and increased physical fitness will come. It will all happen when leaders Invest in People!
Rob Campbell