“Football is simple. But the most complicated thing is simple football.”
Footballer and coach Johan Cruyff explains: what is obvious is not necessarily simple. This also applies to optimising human capital, essential to a healthy and successful company.
AN ORGANIC COMPANY
Investing in human capital may seem obvious. However, the approach differs from one company to another. Even today, there are companies where only figures count. Some pay a little attention to human capital, but not in a fundamental way or with genuine interest. Human capital is seen as a means. “Organic” companies place people at the centre of their work: they have a clear mission and purpose, employees receive genuine autonomy and are recognised for who they are and what they do. These companies strengthen and motivate their employees so that they can perform their job with passion and pleasure. In this framework, profitability is not an objective but the result of a human business spirit. These companies realise that investing in human capital pays off in many ways. Obviously, a sound financial dashboard remains the way to monitor this and adjust/direct efforts where necessary.
THE GROWING IMPORTANCE OF HUMAN CAPITAL
Human capital will become increasingly important in the future, for two reasons:
1/ Digitalisation and robotics
In these times of rapid digitalisation, companies that maximise this human capital stand out. Customer intimacy cannot be created by a robot or a computer. Many essential things cannot be executed by an algorithm. In his book When digital becomes human, author Steven Van Belleghem goes deeper. Showing creativity and empathy, working with passion, etc. are the preserve of human beings. A healthy, forward-looking company pursues a balance between automation and human capital.
2/ Generation Y
Interesting profiles from Generation Y actively seek an employer who prioritises values such as humanity and authenticity. They are more aware of seeking an attractive job that brings them satisfaction. This generation senses very quickly whether this approach is an integral and genuine part of the company culture or not.
OPTIMISING HUMAN CAPITAL
Investing in human capital is a long-term project. It begins with taking a position: why I do what I do, how do I do it, what can be improved? Regular reflection is of essential importance. Moreover, empowerment is particularly present: it stimulates commitment, autonomy and a proactive approach among employees.
Optimisation is considered in different ways. A company can clearly define its vision and values and actively seek employees whose attitude aligns with this culture. In addition, investing in training, creating and developing career paths is also positive, so that employees are valued and receive the opportunity to work from their passions. Such investments lead to a more organic way of doing business and to a healthy company.
Marc Diamant
To find out more about who we are.
