Earlier this week my best friend celebrated a milestone in his life as he reached 50 years of age. We got to celebrate albeit a brief but quality celebration of the beginning of the next half century of his life and to toast the first half century. We talked about a number of things obviously looking for answers to some of the world’s problems. I thought I would share one piece of that discussion with you and hopefully prompt some reflection on your part – but more importantly prompt some thinking on the part of the organization that you work with.

Our discussion revolved around countries that were experiencing tough economic times and the impact that this had on organizations that are doing business in those countries. It is obviously a tough time for all concerned but what I have noticed is that the leaders in organizations that are immersed in those situations more often than not shift their viewpoint of their employees from that of a valued contributor to the success of the organization to one of a commodity. With that thought process in mind, one can cast aside those valued resources in tough times or one can invest in those resources as it is they that will help your company survive in tough economic times.

I heard of some recent layoffs that an organization had done and found it interesting in that we are suggesting that we are one of the more prosperous geographical locations. Granted, organizations that may reside here do business with other countries and their business decision may have been sparked by the economy in other areas outside of their home base.

Our conversation probed the concept of creating a work force that is engaged, empowered and accountable. We felt that organizations that had created that sort of culture – fostered with mentoring at its core were the organizations that would be able to weather any economic challenges no matter where they were. Having an engaged work force means higher productivity and with higher productivity comes a larger revenue stream. Engaged employees will figure out ways to make it work in those tough economic times and help the organization sustain its share of the market and profitability.

We can understand why so many organizations are experiencing tough times when the economy in their specific area is not great – but do they really need to be suffering as much as they are? What about those organizations that are immersed in a strong economy – what is their reason for struggling.

In your organization your people are your most valued asset. You need to invest in them by working with them to create a culture that is fostered through mentoring. Give them the chance to become engaged, empowered and accountable. Face economic challenges head on as you know that your people will be there with you – they do make a difference! Embrace the “power of mentoring” today!