In this episode of Above the Business, host Bradley Hamdier speaks with Zach Mercurio, author of "The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance." They dive deep into the practical skills leaders need to make team members feel valued, especially in small businesses with 2-25 employees where every person's contribution is crucial.

Zach Mercurio is a researcher and consultant who studies what makes work meaningful. He spends 30% of his time conducting research at the Center for Meaning and Purpose and the rest learning from leaders and teaching others how to create cultures where people matter.

In this episode, you'll hear Bradley and Zach discuss...

The Foundation: Caring About vs. Caring For

• The Critical Difference: Many organizations say they care about their people, but caring for someone requires getting up close and truly understanding them
• The Trust Connection: It's nearly impossible to care about anything if you don't feel cared for first
• No Shortcuts: There are no shortcuts to building trust, engagement, or motivation - it requires time and attention

The Three Core Skills for Making People Matter

1. Noticing People

• Beyond Knowing: You can know someone well but fail to notice when they're struggling
• Practical System: Write down one thing you heard each team member talk about on Friday, then follow up on Monday with a 3-minute check-in
• Better Questions: Instead of "How are you?" ask "What has your attention today?" or "What have you been thinking about?"

2. Affirming People

• More Than Appreciation: Affirmation shows people how their uniqueness makes a unique difference
• Specific Evidence: Give indisputable evidence of their significance rather than general praise
• The Four Unique Gifts: Every person brings strengths, purpose, perspective, and wisdom to your organization

3. Showing People They're Needed

• Ensure every person knows how their work is indispensable and non-disposable
• Connect individual contributions to the bigger vision and impact

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