The why of work: How great leaders build abundant organizations that win - Dave Ulrich and Wendy Ulrich

Before you ask,
"Why aren’t my employees working harder?"
...ask yourself,
"Why are my employees working?"

According to studies, we all work for the same thing—and it’s not just money. It’s meaning. Through our work, we seek a sense of purpose, contribution, connection, value, and hope. Digging down to the meaning of work taps our resilience in hard times and our passion in good times.

That’s the simple but profound premise behind this groundbreaking book by renowned management expert Dave Ulrich and psychologist Wendy Ulrich. They’ve talked to thousands of people—from rank-and-file workers to clients and customers to top-level executives—and synthesized major disciplines to identify the “why” behind our most successful experiences.

Using the model of the “abundant organization,” they provide you with the “how” to create meaning and value in your own workplace. Learn how to:

• Ask the seven questions that drive abundance

• Understand the needs of your customers and staff

• Personalize the work to motivate your employees

• Build and grow your business in any economy

By following the Ulrichs’ step-by-step guidelines, you will set off a chain reaction of positive and enduring effects. Employees who find meaning in their work are more competent, committed, and eager to contribute—and their contribution will result in increased customer commitment, which delivers a winning performance on the bottom line.

The Why of Work includes targeted checklists, questionnaires, and other useful tools to help you turn aspirations into action. Using the proven principles of abundance, you can coordinate your needs with those of your employers, your employees, and your customers—and create a vision that resonates for years to come.

When you understand why we work, you know how to succeed.