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Sign up todayWhy People Work
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Learn moreWhy do people work? This appears to be a very simple and obvious question. And when we ask this question to people, we usually get a simple and seemingly obvious answer – “DUH! They want to get a paycheck.” The wise and insightful leader will go beyond this obvious response and come to grips with the fact that there are more complex and hidden human needs within the human spirit.
There are most likely thousands of leadership books written to equip leaders to develop the skills and behaviors necessary to encourage their teams to achieve goals and purposes. However, the primary focus of this book is to assist leaders in looking deeper into the expectations and motivations of the people they serve. So as the organization is achieving its strategic plans and objectives, it is also meeting the critical needs and ambitions of its most important essential resources, better known as its human resources.
In businesses and organizations today, everything begins and ends with leadership. The leaders, who go beyond the obvious to uncover these critical hidden expectations of their employees, are able to create a culture of engagement and retention where employees not only give you their hands but, most importantly, their hearts. The return on investment for this effort is that the leader will earn their employees’ best effort. Therefore, when you know your employees “why” game, they will bring their “A-game.”
As the Vice President of Customer Transformation for Dale Carnegie & Associates, Ercell oversees the entire customer experience by creating quality products that facilitate personal and professional breakthroughs for clients and developing a rigorous trainer certification system rooted in our unique delivery methodology. He ensures that both product quality and training will drive profitability for our franchise network while serving our client’s human capital training needs. Ercell is regarded as a rapport builder: someone who can break down barriers and build bridges with messages and insights that transcend cultural and organizational differences. As a Carnegie Master, he is dedicated to coaching, evaluating, and directing the skills and abilities of future Dale Carnegie trainers on a global scale. He currently lives in Atlanta, He is married to his wife Kynley Hayward Charles and they have three children Cydnei, Blair, Nola, and one granddaughter, Madison.
Dr. Merle Heckman is presently the Chief Culture Officer, Master Trainer and Consultant for Dale Carnegie of the Heartland. His work experience is quite diverse. He grew up on a grain farm in Missouri. His work experience is in the areas of agriculture, a non-profit organization, a privately held transportation business, a government agency, and a large publicly held global manufacturing company. This wide variety allows him to relate to employees in many different levels. With a MA in counseling, a MBA with concentrations in Human Resources, Finance, and Marketing, a MPA and a Ed.D. in Educational Leadership, he taught for various universities over the last 19 years both in house and online. Heckman has the SPHR-SCP certification (Senior Professional in Human Resources) from the Society of Human Resource Management. He was awarded the certification of Certified Speaking Professional (CSP) through the National Speakers Association.
Reviews
What sets "Why People Work" apart is its unwavering focus on fostering healthy work relationships. Drawing from extensive research and real-world experiences, Charles and Heckman shed light on the pervasive issue of unhealthy workplace dynamics and offer tangible strategies to cultivate environments where individuals feel seen, heard, and valued. This book is a must read.
The authors' genuine commitment to uplifting others shines through every page, infused with the wisdom gleaned from their illustrious careers in leadership development. From Ercell Charles' embodiment of humility and authenticity to Merle Heckman's lifelong dedication to influencing and inspiring others, their combined expertise creates a compelling narrative that resonates far beyond the confines of the workplace.
Whether you call yourself a leader or not, if you're ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and meaningful connection, I wholeheartedly encourage you to explore the profound insights within "Why People Work." Let this book be your guide as you navigate the complexities of leadership and unlock the boundless potential within yourself and those around you. - M. Nami MD, PhD; Neurocognitivist Sleep Disorders Fellow; Assistant Professor, Canadian University Dubai, UAE; Certified Physician Executive Member Harvard Alumni Entrepreneurs; Chief Scientist, Neuroscience Director BrainHub, UAE
“A thoughtful and engaging deep dive into today’s workplace by two authors whose empathetic view of leadership is continuous learning. Their combined perspective will connect the reader with influencing others and, most importantly, themselves. It is a necessary book for those whose drive focuses on continuous self-development and improvement in their leadership journey.” - Jay R. Harf, VP EPS&S
The book provided by you was engrossing, giving me a cinematic experience. Despite its simplicity, it was packed with valuable insights into the reality of how many corporate leaders operate nowadays and what should be the correct approach of driving people/goals. It highlighted the importance of adopting collaborative approaches, displaying appropriate behavior, and executing tasks effectively. The book could be an excellent reference for those leaders who believe that they can use their power to dominate their employees. It shows that true leadership is about building positive relationships with employees and inspiring them to achieve their potential.
Your generosity in sharing your experience, knowledge, and wisdom in the book is truly inspiring. Your words will serve as a guide to many who seek to enhance their personalities and spread the essence of the author's intention. Thank you for your contribution to the world. - Rajni Badola, General Manager Logistics & Exports Marathon Electric, Hyderabad, India