Erica Keswin

Overview

Bring Your Human to Work by Erica Keswin is a thought-provoking book that delves into the importance of human connection in the workplace and how organizations can foster a more human-centric culture. Keswin, a workplace strategist and business coach, draws on her extensive research and real-life examples to provide valuable insights on how to build more meaningful relationships, enhance employee well-being, and ultimately drive business success. By prioritizing the human element in the workplace, organizations can create a more engaged and productive workforce.

Key Points / Ideas

1. The Power of Authentic Connections

Keswin emphasizes the significance of authentic connections in the workplace. She argues that when colleagues genuinely understand and care about one another, they are more likely to collaborate effectively and support each other's growth. Keswin provides various evidence-backed examples, such as the success of companies like Barry-Wehmiller, where leaders prioritize a caring culture to drive employee engagement and business outcomes.

2. The Role of Rituals

In the book, rituals are presented as powerful tools for building connections and reinforcing culture. Keswin showcases renowned organizations like Starbucks and the Navy SEALs, who leverage rituals to enhance employee well-being, foster inclusivity, and create a sense of belonging. By implementing purposeful rituals, such as team-building activities or regular check-ins, companies can strengthen relationships among employees and create a more human-centered environment.

3. Flexibility and Work-Life Integration

The author argues that organizations need to embrace flexibility and promote work-life integration to create a supportive and sustainable work environment. Keswin highlights companies like Patagonia and Deloitte that have successfully implemented flexible work policies, leading to increased job satisfaction, reduced burnout, and higher productivity. By allowing employees to have a better balance between work and personal life, organizations can attract and retain top talent while demonstrating their commitment to the well-being of their workforce.

Conclusion

In Bring Your Human to Work, Erica Keswin emphasizes the importance of human connection and its impact on employee well-being and organizational success. By cultivating authentic connections, implementing rituals, and embracing flexibility, organizations can create a workplace culture that values and supports the whole person. Keswin's research and examples provide compelling evidence for the power of human-centric strategies, making this book a valuable resource for leaders, managers, and anyone interested in creating a more meaningful and productive work environment. For further readings on work culture and employee well-being, additional recommended books include "Dare to Lead" by Brené Brown and "The Happiness Advantage" by Shawn Achor.