Why Intention Trumps Compliance and How to Incorporate Intention in Your Business

The Shift Towards Values-Driven Employment

In recent years, a monumental shift has occurred across industries and corporations. Deloitte's survey reveals that a whopping 66% of millennials and 65% of Gen Z prioritize businesses that focus on societal and environmental impact over financial gains (Deloitte, 2021 Global Millennial and Gen Z Survey)[1]. It's high time companies face this reality: employees demand values-driven workplaces.

The Limitations of Compliance

While companies have adopted mottos or goals to project alignment with these values, Gallup's report uncovers that a meager 23% of employees actually believe in their organization's core values (Gallup, 2017 State of the Global Workplace)[2]. Newsflash: compliance as a benchmark for success is fading, and it's time to do more than just check boxes.

Intention: The Real Game-Changer

To make a genuine difference, companies must embrace intention as a flexible, overarching mission. Intention guides all decisions within a company, and it is flexible. Forget rigid rules; intention is about honesty, trustworthiness, and relentless pursuit of positive change.

Building an Equitable and Inclusive Workplace

A company that truthfully aims for a more equitable, just, and diverse workplace must prioritize its employees' needs. A 2019 Harvard Business Review article highlighted the importance of building an inclusive culture that addresses unconscious biases and systemic issues (HBR, 2019)[4]. While it is essential to meet metrics and generate revenue, this should not come at the expense of your team. Put people first, and watch your motivated, energized team drive success.

Gender Diversity and Accommodations

Using the promotion of gender diversity in the workplace as an example, this requires more than just hiring women; it demands accommodations such as generous family leave packages, childcare benefits, and location flexibility. A study by Catalyst found that companies with more women in leadership positions had a 34% higher total shareholder return compared to those with fewer women (Catalyst, 2007 The Bottom Line: Corporate Performance and Women’s Representation on Boards)[5].

A truly inclusive environment should embrace feminine qualities and provide space for employees to address personal needs without sacrificing their work.

Authentic Environmental Intentions: No More Greenwashing

Similarly, a company with genuine environmental intentions must align all actions and decisions with this goal. A survey conducted by IBM Institute for Business Value found that 77% of consumers are likelier to purchase from companies that demonstrate a commitment to addressing climate change (IBM, 2020 The sustainability imperative)[6].

Instead of purchasing an electric car for appearances, continue using an older car for as long as possible. Reduce the carbon footprint by allowing employees to work from home, rather than requiring long commutes. Make responsible consumption choices and prioritize environmentally friendly options for clients. Select eco-friendly server options and conserve energy in the workplace.

The Importance of Intention

It's time to wake up and embrace intention as the driving force behind a lasting, positive impact. Companies that align actions with their mission will not only reap internal benefits but also contribute to a better tomorrow for all. The era of hollow compliance is over. It's time to revolutionize your business.