But what’s driving this significant disengagement across the global workforce?

The answer lies in the loss of fundamental human needs: the sense of being needed and a feeling of safety. Many employees no longer find purpose or deeper meaning in their work, and they lack an emotional connection with their business leaders and companies. In contrast, employees who feel genuinely cared for remain engaged at work, regardless of external circumstances and challenges. They’re the ones who consistently go the extra mile, working with passion and a profound connection to the company. Unfortunately, they represent only a small fraction of the workforce.

So, how can you ensure your employees belong to this highly productive and committed 23% of the global workforce?

The answer is both simple and profound: demonstrate authentic care for your people. Offer a clear purpose and vision that resonate with your employees. Address their emotional needs, recognizing that we are all emotional creatures. Emotions are an integral part of our human condition and serve as a potent motivational force (neuroscience reveals that the emotional brain is 20 times more powerful than the logical brain).

In essence, it all comes down to a social contract: when you meet your employees’ emotional needs, they, in turn, support your business. Understanding the power of emotion not only leads to a more engaged workforce but also provides a significant advantage over your competition.