The Business of Caring
In a world where 88% of people feel uncared for by their employers, Bob Chapman, CEO of Barry-Wehmiller, has built a business empire on the idea that everyone matters. Chapman’s journey, from taking over his father’s struggling company to leading a $3.6 billion global enterprise, is a testament to the power of human connection in the workplace.
His philosophy is rooted in the belief that the way leaders treat their employees impacts their lives at home and their health. He believes that businesses have a responsibility to care for their employees and that this care can be a powerful force for good in the world.
The High Cost of Stress
Statistics show that the majority of people feel like their company doesn’t care about them. This lack of caring has real-world consequences. A staggering 74% of illnesses are chronic, and the biggest cause of chronic illness is stress, with work being the biggest contributor.
Chapman believes that businesses have a responsibility to care for their employees and that this care can be a powerful force for good in the world. He argues that by creating a culture of caring, businesses can reduce stress, improve health, and create a more fulfilling work experience for their employees.
The Power of Caring
Chapman’s vision of a caring workplace is not simply about being nice. It’s about recognizing the inherent dignity of every individual and creating an environment where people feel valued, respected, and supported. This vision is embodied in Barry-Wehmiller’s guiding principle: “We measure success by the way we touch the lives of people”.
This principle has guided the company through challenging times, including the 2008-2009 economic downturn. Instead of layoffs, the company implemented a shared sacrifice program where everyone, from the CEO to the factory floor worker, took a month of unpaid leave. This act of solidarity not only saved jobs but also strengthened the company’s culture of caring.
The Contagion of Caring
Chapman believes that caring is contagious. When leaders show genuine care for their employees, it creates a ripple effect that extends beyond the workplace and into the wider community. He envisions a world where businesses are not just profit-making machines but also forces for good, contributing to the well-being of society as a whole.
His message is particularly relevant for those in learning and development and human resources. As influencers within their organizations, they have the opportunity to promote a culture of caring and create a more humane workplace. By embracing the principles of empathy, listening, and respect, they can help to create a world where everyone matters.
A Call to Action
Chapman’s story is an inspiration and a call to action. It challenges us to rethink our traditional notions of leadership and success and to embrace a more human-centered approach to business. In a world that often feels broken and divided, Chapman’s message of caring offers a glimmer of hope, reminding us that we all have the power to make a difference in the lives of others.
You can watch the entire conversation between Bob Chapman and Dr. Jerry Zandstra in the recent Ingenuiti webinar below. To further explore Bob’s impactful initiatives, visit: https://linktr.ee/barrywehmiller
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