TOPdesk has received recognition for promoting a happy and healthy workforce. Co-founder and CEO, Wolter Smit, shares his company’s very simple approach to building a work environment where employees are supported and encouraged to have fun.
According to Smit, there are two types of people, X type and Y type. The X types “hate work” and need to be incentivized to perform. The Y types “want to work.” They genuinely enojoy their jobs and workplace.
Employers need to determine what type of culture they are building or trying to build. Then they can identify what type of employees will fit in that culture.
Following the Y model, TOPdesk has created a healthy workplace. Their secret for happy healthy employees is below.
#1 Pick Y type people.
Actively seek and hire people who “self propel.” These people are motivated and engaged. You can give them freedom and the job will get done because they enjoy the work they are doing.
#2 Leader Awareness
Management should be aware of X and Y types of people. They should be asking and seeking answers to the following questions: Why is this X person not happy? Why are they not motivated? How can I support them?
Employees need to ask themselves if they are an X person or a Y person. If they are an X person, the next question should be — why? Are they unhappy with their job? With their industry? They should try to figure out what will make them Y people.
Overall this was a good talk. Employers must build a workplace that promotes this culture if they want to be successful.
Creating Healthy Workplaces 