HBR IdeaCast Stop Neglecting Low-Wage Workers
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Apr 18, 2023 Joseph Fuller, a Harvard Business School professor, and Manjari Raman, a program director at the same institution, dive into the complexities surrounding low-wage workers. They reveal that these employees, often seen as temporary, are actually loyal and seek opportunities for growth. The duo discusses the disconnect between employer perceptions and worker motivations, stressing the need for mentorship and career pathways. They also showcase how companies like Disney and Walmart effectively invest in their workforce, highlighting the hidden costs of neglecting this essential group.
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Self-Fulfilling Prophecy
- Companies' policies regarding low-wage workers often become self-fulfilling prophecies.
- High turnover leads to simplified job designs and minimal training investment, perpetuating the cycle.
Mentorship and Advancement
- Provide regular, actionable feedback to low-wage workers beyond annual reviews.
- Create and communicate clear advancement pathways, showing commitment to their growth.
Disney's Uplifting Program
- Disney partners with Valencia Community College to offer low-wage workers, like housekeepers, opportunities for skill development.
- This allows them to move into higher-paying, customer-facing roles.